Kenya’s Court of Appeal Declares 2023 Finance Law Unconstitutional

Kenya’s Court of Appeal has declared the 2023 finance law unconstitutional, delivering a significant setback to President William Ruto’s administration Reuters reported. The ruling comes after the government had already withdrawn this year’s finance bill following deadly protests.

The finance bills are crucial documents presented to parliament at the beginning of each financial year, outlining the government’s revenue-raising strategies, including tax hikes and the introduction of new levies. The court’s decision to nullify the 2023 finance law complicates the government’s efforts to implement its fiscal policies and manage the country’s economy.

This legal challenge and subsequent ruling underscore the contentious nature of the finance bills and the opposition they have faced from the public and various interest groups. The protests that led to the withdrawal of the current bill were marked by significant unrest, reflecting widespread discontent with the proposed economic measures.

The government’s next steps in response to this ruling will be closely watched, as it navigates the legal and political ramifications while seeking to stabilize the nation’s fiscal policies. This development is a critical moment for President Ruto’s administration, highlighting the ongoing tensions between governmental fiscal strategies and public approval in Kenya.