Aviation and Aerospace Development Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika has questioned the decision by Makueni Members of Parliament to vote against the Finance Bill 2026, arguing that the legislation is important for raising revenue needed to fund development projects and government programmes across the country.
Speaking during a women’s empowerment forum at Kisau/Kiteta Ward in Mbooni Sub-County on Sunday, Mbaika said the government requires adequate resources to initiate new projects and complete ongoing development initiatives.
While commending Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse for supporting the Bill, the PS expressed concern that some legislators may not have fully examined its contents before taking a position on it.
“In the whole of Makueni, only Mutuse supported the Finance Bill while the others opposed it. My concern is that some leaders may not have fully interrogated the contents of the Bill, making it difficult to effectively articulate the issues involved,” said Mbaika.
She questioned how development projects and government programmes would be financed if revenue-raising measures contained in the Bill were rejected.
Mbaika also noted that government operations and services depend on revenue generated through such legislation, saying adequate funding is necessary for the state to effectively deliver services and implement its development agenda.
The PS further urged residents to embrace government relief programmes intended to support vulnerable households, saying such interventions play an important role in addressing immediate needs within communities.
“I am here to tell you the truth. You are being asked to reject maize, rice and beans the government is offering so that your children can sleep hungry while theirs are eating chapati and meat. Vote for leaders who will articulate development issues and serve your interests,” she said.
On his part, Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse called for responsible leadership and urged leaders organizing demonstrations to take personal responsibility for the activities they support.
The MP also said the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) intends to field candidates for all elective positions in the region during the 2027 General Election as part of efforts to strengthen its political presence and advance its development agenda.
“We will also work hard and ensure we have a majority of party members so that we can change the political narrative in this region,” he said.
Director of Medical Services for Preventive and Promotive Health Dr. Andrew Mulwa, who was also present, attributed the region’s slow pace of development to its long-standing political alignment and called for greater support for government programmes.
Former Mbooni MP Munyao Kisoi and former Kilome MP Regina Ndambuki also urged residents to embrace government initiatives aimed at accelerating development and improving livelihoods in the area.
By Patrick Nyakundi
