In a significant turn of events, Kenya's Finance Bill for the fiscal year was passed despite strong opposition and threats of protest from the coalition party, Azimio la Umoja. The bill's passage led to a reduction in overall expenditure by Ksh25.5 billion compared to the revised total National Government expenditure approved in the Supplementary Appropriations (No. 1), Act 2023.

The reduction was composed of an increase in recurrent spending amounting to Ksh9.5 billion and a rationalization of development spending by Ksh35 billion, as highlighted in a report. Attorney General Justice Muturi, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung'u, and his Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo were present to witness the signing of the two bills.

The Finance Bill sparked intense debates nationwide, with both the government and the opposition expressing strong views on the matter. Despite Azimio la Umoja's opposition and threats to take to the streets, the bill successfully passed. Key figures such as Ichung'wah and Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro played instrumental roles in rallying support from Kenya Kwanza MPs, ensuring the bill's passage despite strong opposition.

The collaborative efforts of the National Assembly's Budget and Appropriations Committee, chaired by Ndindi Nyoro (Kiharu), and the Finance and National Planning Committee, chaired by Kuria Kimani (Molo), were pivotal in reviewing and amending the budget proposed by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung'u.

However, the passage of the controversial Budget led to an uproar among members of the public, particularly due to the introduction of new taxes, notably the 1.5 percent Housing Levy. This compelled Azimio la Umoja to stage a walkout during CS Njuguna's speech on Thursday, June 15. The opposition coalition criticized the government for neglecting the concerns raised by ordinary Kenyans about the budget and increasing taxes on essential goods and services without adequately addressing the high cost of living.

In response to the public's discontent, Azimio la Umoja announced plans to lead a public engagement exercise on Tuesday, June 27, at Kamkunji Grounds in Nairobi. The coalition aims to foster dialogue and address the grievances surrounding the Finance Bill and its implications for the people of Kenya.