The Parliamentary Committee on Finance and National Planning has called on the Office of the Attorney General to prepare a simplified version of the Finance Bill 2025 Amendment, in a bid to make the proposed changes more accessible and understandable to ordinary Kenyans ahead of the Bill’s formal debate in Parliament.
Speaking during a public participation forum held in Kiambu County on Thursday, Committee Chairperson Kuria Kimani underscored the need for inclusive legislative processes, urging that the language used in drafting the Bill be made simpler to foster broader civic engagement.
“We urge the Office of the Attorney General to come up with a draft that is easy to read and understand. This will allow even Kenyans in the lower cadres to fully comprehend what is being amended,” said Kuria.
The forum was part of the Committee’s national tour to collect public views on the proposed tax and revenue reforms contained in the amendment Bill, which is expected to be read in the National Assembly next week.
Despite the forum’s significance, turnout from the local population was notably low. Several Kiambu residents attributed the poor attendance to a lack of awareness and limited civic education regarding the contents and implications of the Finance Bill.
Committee members acknowledged the challenge and emphasized the importance of sustained public sensitization efforts. “Effective public participation can only happen when citizens are adequately informed. We must work together to bridge this gap,” said another member of the Committee.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to incorporating public input into the final version of the Finance Bill 2025 Amendment, calling for ongoing dialogue between lawmakers, civil society, and citizens to ensure transparency and accountability in the legislative process.
The proposed amendments are part of the government’s broader fiscal reform agenda, expected to introduce key changes to taxation and revenue collection measures in line with Kenya’s medium-term economic strategy.
The Finance Bill continues to draw public and political attention, Kenyans calls for clarity, accessibility, and active citizen involvement to shape its path through Parliament.