MP Ichung’wah defends Finance Bill 2026, says taxes target wealthy and betting sector

Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah has defended the Finance Bill 2026, saying that raising revenue does not necessarily mean increasing taxes or introducing new taxes on ordinary citizens, but rather widening the tax base. Speaking in Parliament, Ichung’wah said betting, land-based casinos, lotteries, and promotional giveaways such as car prizes will be specifically taxed, arguing that the gambling sector has been under-taxed despite generating high earnings. He also noted that taxes on private jets and helicopters, alongside broader aviation reforms, are intended to ensure a fairer and more inclusive tax system.