Busia County Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has defended the recently passed Finance Bill, describing it as a key instrument for raising revenue to improve service delivery and fund development projects across the country.
Speaking in Matayos Sub- County on Friday during a meeting with women leaders, Omanyo said the government is focused on strengthening the economy through enhanced domestic revenue collection rather than continued borrowing.
“Kenya will be built by Kenyans, and we cannot continue to survive on borrowing. We need to pay taxes to build our own nation,” she said. “Every Kenyan should commit to paying taxes and supporting development projects. The government is expanding the tax base to ensure those who have been evading taxes contribute without increasing the burden on compliant taxpayers.”
Omanyo criticized opposition leaders for rejecting the Finance Bill without offering alternative proposals, saying leaders have a responsibility to provide solutions to the country’s economic challenges.
“The opposition failed to point out specific clauses during debate and instead relied on propaganda to incite the public against the Bill. We should be honest with ourselves. We cannot reject an entire document meant to improve citizens’ lives without offering alternatives,” she said.
She also welcomed the government’s decision to introduce stipends for village elders, noting that it recognizes their role in grassroots administration and community leadership.
“Village elders have served communities for many years without recognition. Providing them with stipends is a step in the right direction. The budget has also addressed key sectors including agriculture, health and education, which will ease pressure on households while improving essential services,” she added.
On political matters, Omanyo maintained that the ODM party remains united despite internal disagreements, dismissing claims of division within its ranks.
“Our party is still strong and intact. There are leaders trying to mislead our brother Edwin Sifuna into believing he can control the party. ODM is under the able leadership of Dr. Oburu Odinga, and we will not allow distractions. We are working with the government and will continue after the next general election,” she said.
She further expressed concern over rising vandalism targeting public projects in Busia County, urging residents to take responsibility for protecting development initiatives.
“We are witnessing cases of vandalism on projects meant to benefit the community. There is no reason to be used politically to destroy projects that even your own family stands to benefit from,” she said.
Omanyo cited water projects as particularly affected, warning that destruction of such facilities worsens existing shortages in many parts of the county.
“Water remains a major challenge in many areas. Destroying water projects only hurts the people. Residents should act as watchdogs and ensure these projects are protected until completion so that everyone can benefit,” she said.
By Salome Alwanda and Rodgers Omondi
