Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has praised 40 Members of the National Assembly who voted against the 2026/27 Finance Bill, describing them as “true heroes” who chose to stand with Kenyans rather than support what he termed an oppressive piece of legislation.

In a statement issued following the vote on Thursday, June 18, 2026, Gachagua commended the lawmakers for rejecting the Finance Bill and said history would remember them for siding with ordinary citizens.

“History will remember the 40 Honoroble Members of the National Assembly who on Thursday 18th June 2026 stood with the people of Kenya. You are the true heroes of our Nation who chose the 55 Million Kenyans against the oppressive 2026/27 finance bill,” Gachagua said.

He argued that the legislators had demonstrated genuine representation by voting against the bill, which he claimed would place additional burdens on Kenyans.

Gachagua urged Kenyans to take note of the legislators who voted against the measure, saying their decision reflected the interests of citizens.

“Dear Kenyans, please note the Honorable Members who stood with you and voted NO, to Reject the oppressive 2026 Finance Bill. That was a vote for you as a Kenyan,” said Gachagua.

At the same time, Gachagua criticised lawmakers who voted in favour of the Finance Bill as well as those who did not participate in the vote, accusing them of failing to stand with the people who elected them.

“For those who voted YES to oppress the people who elected them as well as those who deliberately kept off when it mattered most, I am sure Mr. William Ruto is very happy with you and shall reward you handsomely,” he stated.

The former deputy president’s comments followed the passage of the Finance Bill, 2026, by the National Assembly on Thursday, where 122 lawmakers voted in support of the legislation against 40 who opposed it.

The Bill is expected to play a key role in funding the government’s Sh4.8 trillion budget for the 2026/27 fiscal year.