Ugenya MP David Ochieng has strongly criticized the Finance Bill 2024, labeling it as punitive and lacking in benefits for the populace.

Mr Ochieng, who expressed his dissent unequivocally, asserted that upon thorough examination of the document, he found no redeeming qualities.

“The bill offers nothing to the people. I refuse to endorse it, and I urge my fellow lawmakers to reconsider their support for this policy,” stated Mr. Ochieng.

Serving on the budget committee, the Ugenya legislator elaborated on his concerns, highlighting that the proposed provisions disproportionately favor certain regions while neglecting others, particularly the western region.

“There’s no provision in that bill that addresses the needs of our region, spanning from Trans Nzoia to Homa Bay,” he emphasized.

Ochieng criticized what he perceives as unequal resource distribution, citing examples such as the allocation of a mere Sh100 million for projects like the Got Nanga-Bar Ober road, which he argues falls short in addressing the region’s infrastructure needs.

“We’ve been shortchanged. While other areas receive substantial allocations, essential projects like the Got Nanga-Bar Ober road are allocated a mere Sh100 million, barely enough to tarmac 4 kilometers,” he lamented.

Mr. Ochieng, previously aligned with Azimio, shifted allegiance to Kenya Kwanza, making him one of the initial Azimio elected officials to do so.