Raila Commends Opposition MPs for Backing President Uhuru's New Taxes

Even as a huge section of Kenyans on social media continue to slam him for backing President Kenyatta’s new increased taxes, Raila Odinga has thanked opposition MPs who voted in favor of the Finance Bill, 2018.

In a statement dispatched to newsrooms on Saturday, Odinga said the increased taxes proposed by the President were important in solving Kenya’s problems.

“I assure Kenyans of my commitment to the pursuit of a lasting solution to the country’s decades old problems through pragmatic steps arrived at through bipartisan support devoid of the traditional rhetoric and brinkmanship,” said Raila in a statement released by his spokesperson Dennis Onyango.

Raila further noted that the Finance Bill was part of his party's agenda and hinted at taking disciplinary actions against Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) MPs who opposed it.

“…Party discipline which enables the Parliamentary Group to support the policies and directions of the party is critical to strengthening the political parties system in the country, delivery of the party’s agenda and aiding the process of democratization,” added Raila.

Odinga also indicated that the president's new taxes are part of measures set in place to achieve the promises and dreams envisioned in the building bridges initiative born after the historic March 9th handshake between him and Kenyatta.