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Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has responded to criticism over his absence during the vote on the Finance Bill 2026, saying official commitments outside the country prevented him from attending the National Assembly session.
The lawmaker addressed the issue on Friday, June 19, after many Kenyans questioned why he did not participate in one of the most closely watched votes of the year.
In his statement, Nyoro acknowledged that many people expected him to be present when MPs voted on the controversial bill.
He explained that he travelled on Wednesday evening for engagements that had already been scheduled. According to him, the commitments could not be postponed.
Despite the explanation, the MP admitted that his absence disappointed many Kenyans who wanted him to take a stand during the vote.
MP Defends His Record on Finance Bill
Nyoro argued that he had already opposed several proposals during discussions on the Finance Bill.
He revealed that he pushed for changes aimed at reducing pressure on fuel prices after the National Assembly Finance Committee failed to adopt his recommendations.
The MP said parliamentary procedures blocked the proposal from becoming part of the Finance Bill debate because it qualified as a separate money bill.
According to Nyoro, parliamentary offices advised him to pursue the proposal after completion of the Finance Bill process.
The Kiharu legislator also raised concerns about Parliament’s oversight role.
He argued that holding the Executive accountable becomes difficult when leaders from both the Majority and Minority sides support the same position.
Nyoro said this situation forced him to champion some issues outside Parliament through public engagement and advocacy.
Points to Previous Campaigns
To support his argument, Nyoro highlighted several issues he has publicly challenged.
He cited attempts to increase fees in day secondary schools, saying public pressure contributed to the government’s decision not to proceed with the plan.
He also referenced the proposed sale of government shares in Safaricom. According to the MP, court action helped stop the transaction from moving forward.
Parliament eventually approved the Finance Bill 2026 after 122 MPs voted in support of it while 40 opposed it.
The outcome sparked debate over the large number of lawmakers who did not participate in the vote.
As discussions continue, Nyoro maintains that he remains committed to pushing for policies that improve economic conditions for ordinary Kenyans.
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