In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has filed a court case to halt the ongoing public participation on the Finance Bill 2024, arguing that it’s premature and unconstitutional.
- Omtatah, along with Dr. Benjamin Magare, contends that the National Assembly’s consideration of the Finance Bill before approving the budget estimates for the FY 2024/2025 violates legal procedures and raises concerns of potential fraud and misappropriation of funds.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has taken legal action by filing a court case to halt the ongoing public participation process concerning the Finance Bill 2024.
Omtatah, alongside Dr. Benjamin Magare, contends that the National Assembly has prematurely introduced the Finance Bill 2024 before the approval of the Financial Year 2024/2025 budget estimates by parliament.
The petitioners argue that it is both unlawful and unconstitutional for the Finance Bill 2024 to be based on revenue estimates for the FY 2024/2025 budget, which were submitted to the National Assembly on April 30, 2024, by the Cabinet Secretary.
Read Also:
Shakahola Massacre: 422 Witnesses Set to Testify Against Mackenzie in Manslaughter Trial
Cheptoyek from Uganda Shines in 10km Race at AK National Championships
President Ruto US Tour: Ruto Announces 20,000 Jobs at Ksh.6B CCI Call Centre
They emphasize the need for the court to intervene urgently, as they believe there is no other recourse available to rectify the situation.
Court documents reveal the petitioners’ grievances, stating that the National Assembly’s consideration of the Finance Bill 2024 prior to approving the Appropriations Act, 2024, violates constitutional procedures.
They highlight Section 39(4)(a) of the Public Finance Management Act, which mandates the National Assembly to ensure that total revenue aligns with the approved fiscal framework.
Read Also:
Eminem’s Daughter, Hailie Jade, Ties the Knot with Longterm Partner
Six Die, Several Injured In Collision On Eldoret- Nakuru Road
Furthermore, Omtatah and Magare express suspicion regarding the National Assembly’s decision to enact the Finance Act 2024 before passing the Appropriations Act 2024.
They allege that this sequence suggests a deliberate attempt to engage in fraudulent schemes and budgetary corruption, potentially leading to the misappropriation of taxpayer funds to finance unauthorized expenditures.