Ruto signed the 2026 Finance Bill into law at State House, Nairobi, clearing the path for the provisions it contains.
The ceremony drew senior officials, including Treasury staff and the lawmakers who championed the Bill.
Speaking, Ruto explained that the law emerged from extensive public consultations and aims to make tax administration fairer while sparing ordinary citizens additional burdens.
He said Parliament had opened digital platforms for feedback; the Bill does not raise taxes for ordinary people but tightens compliance, closes gaps, and ensures everyone pays what they owe.
The president noted that passing the Finance and Appropriation Acts gives the government the means to pursue its development agenda.
With the Acts signed, Kenya now has the legal backbone and resources to fund its priorities, create jobs, bolster livelihoods, and invest in the future under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Strategy.
He stressed that the national budget transcends mere financial figures.
Budget is a declaration of national priorities, not just an accounting tool.
Ruto also refuted rumors that the government was considering taxes on land, second-hand clothing, or bottled water.
Unlike the misinformation circulating, the government has not proposed any tax on freehold land or related holdings.
He added there is no plan for a tax on mitumba, no alteration to the rental income tax, and no levy on bottled water.
The president noted that much of the debate was fueled by false information and reiterated that the law’s measures aim to improve compliance, close revenue gaps, and promote a fairer tax system.
Last week the National Assembly approved the Finance Bill, 2026, in its Third Reading with 122 votes for and 40 against.
The vote is part of the effort to finance the Sh4.8 trillion budget for 2026-27.
The outcome reflected the ruling coalition’s majority despite a united opposition.
Members of the president’s camp and the broad government coalition supported the Bill, while a group led by allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua opposed it.
Gachagua had instructed DCP-aligned MPs to reject the Bill and push for a division vote to register each legislator’s stance.
The Bill’s passage now clears the way for Ruto’s assent and formal enactment.