President William Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to driving transformation in Kenya, emphasizing his determination to overcome obstacles and implement bold reforms aimed at improving the lives of all citizens.
His remarks came during the 5th graduation ceremony at Garissa University, where he addressed the nation alongside key government officials.
Speaking passionately about his vision for the country, Ruto declared,
“This country will change, I promise you. We are going to change it because we are determined to make whatever decisions to unlock its full potential.”
The President highlighted the government’s initiatives, including negotiations with multiple countries to secure employment opportunities abroad for up to 500,000 Kenyan youth. This effort, he stated, aimed to bolster Kenya’s economy by tapping into global job markets.
Ruto also urged Members of Parliament to swiftly pass the Finance Bill 2024, currently under debate, stressing its crucial role in funding essential projects in education and other sectors. He underscored the bill’s significance in providing meals for schoolchildren from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring their continued education and development.
“I am asking the MPs to expedite the bill in Parliament so that we can make that facility available to vulnerable children who otherwise will be out of school unless there is a meal for them there,”
The Finance Bill 2024 has sparked nationwide protests due to proposed tax increases, prompting adjustments by the National Assembly Finance Committee. Notable revisions include the removal of the 16% VAT on bread and taxes on various essential services, responding to public outcry while addressing revenue gaps projected by the Treasury.
In a letter to the National Assembly, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u outlined potential budget cuts across government departments should the Finance Bill not pass. This move underscores the critical financial implications at stake as Kenya approaches the new fiscal year.
The President’s call for parliamentary action coincides with ongoing legislative deliberations, with MPs set to vote on amendments next week. The outcome of these proceedings will determine the bill’s fate ahead of the upcoming financial year, underscoring its pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s economic landscape.
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