In a dramatic turn of events, Kenyan President William Ruto has rejected the 2024 finance bill, bowing to intense public pressure and widespread nationwide demonstrations. The decision marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s legislative and political landscape, raising important questions about the next steps according to constitutional procedures.
Backdrop of Rejection
The 2024 finance bill, a critical piece of legislation outlining government spending and taxation for the coming year, faced vehement opposition from various sectors of society. Critics argued that the proposed taxes and spending cuts would disproportionately affect low- and middle-income citizens, exacerbating economic inequalities. The nationwide protests, which saw thousands take to the streets, underscored the public’s discontent and placed immense pressure on the administration.
Constitutional Procedures Following Rejection
Kenya’s Constitution, specifically Article 115, outlines the procedures to be followed when a president rejects a bill. Here are the key clauses relevant to the situation:
1. Clause (1): Within fourteen days after receipt of a Bill, the President shall:
– (a) Assent to the Bill; or
– (b) Refer the Bill back to Parliament for reconsideration, noting any reservations.
2. Clause (5)(b): If Parliament passes the Bill after reconsideration:
– (a) The appropriate Speaker shall re-submit it to the President within seven days.
– (b) The President shall then have seven days to assent to the Bill.
3. Clause (6): If the President does not assent to the Bill or refer it back within the prescribed period, the Bill shall be considered as having been assented to on the expiry of that period.
Immediate Consequences and Next Steps
With President Ruto’s refusal to sign the bill, the following steps are expected as per the constitutional guidelines:
1. Referral Back to Parliament: The bill now returns to Parliament for reconsideration. The President is required to provide specific reservations that need to be addressed.
2. Parliamentary Action: Parliament must review the President’s reservations and decide whether to amend the bill accordingly. If Parliament passes the bill again, it will be resubmitted to the President.
3. Final Presidential Assent: Upon resubmission, the President has seven days to assent to the bill. If he fails to do so within this period, the bill will automatically become law as stipulated by Clause (6).
Potential Outcomes
Several scenarios could unfold following the bill’s return to Parliament:
1. Bill Amendments and Compromise: Parliament might amend the bill to address the President’s reservations and public concerns. This process would involve negotiations and potentially significant changes to the original bill.
2. Override Attempt: If Parliament chooses not to amend the bill, it might attempt to pass it in its original form. This would require a two-thirds majority vote in both houses to override the President’s objections.
3. Interim Measures: To avoid a potential fiscal crisis, temporary funding measures might be adopted to ensure government operations continue smoothly while a long-term solution is negotiated.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s rejection of the 2024 finance bill in response to public pressure and nationwide protests underscores the importance of public opinion and constitutional procedures in the legislative process. As the government navigates the next steps, adhering to the constitutional guidelines will be crucial in finding a balance between fiscal responsibility and addressing the concerns of Kenyan citizens. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping Kenya’s economic and political future as lawmakers, the president, and the public work towards a viable resolution.
