Kenyans have been given a fresh chance to help shape next year’s tax policies as the National Treasury begins collecting ideas for the Finance Bill 2026.
The Treasury issued a public notice on Monday, December 8, 2025, inviting citizens and all major stakeholders to send in detailed suggestions that could amend current tax laws.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi said the government wants practical, well-researched proposals that can guide the 2026 and 2027 budgets.
According to the notice, the call for submissions is part of the constitutional requirement for public participation. Articles 201 and 232 of the Constitution emphasise openness, accountability and citizen involvement in national financial decisions. Section 35(2) of the Public Finance Management Act also requires the government to seek public views during the budget-making process.
“In compliance with Article 201(a) and 232(1)(d) of the Constitution and section 35(2) of the Public Finance Management Act, Cap 412A,” the notice stated.
Adding;
“The National Treasury hereby invites the members of the public, the national government and county governments, non-governmental organisations, civil societies, professional bodies, private sector players, religious groups and other stakeholders to make submissions for consideration in the fiscal budget for the Financial Year 2026 and 2027.”
The Treasury has asked the public to focus on specific clauses within tax laws. Every proposal must point out the exact law that needs amendment, describe the problem clearly and provide a justification backed by evidence, data or sound reasoning.
Submissions should also support the government’s Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which seeks to grow the economy through value chain development and inclusive growth.
“The proposals should focus on specific amendments to tax laws for inclusion in the Finance Bill 2026. Submissions should align with the government’s Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which seeks to achieve economic turnaround and inclusive growth through a value chain approach,” the notice read.
“To facilitate review, each submission should include the specific tax law and the provision proposed to be amended, a concise description of the issue to be addressed and a clear justification supported by evidence or analysis.”
The Treasury says the input received will help shape new tax measures aimed at boosting revenue while supporting fair and sustainable economic development.
This comes at a time when Kenya’s public debt remains high, and the government is under pressure to increase tax collection without hurting growth.
The government appears keen to avoid the confusion and tension seen during the 2024 Finance Bill process, which triggered national protests.
Many young people felt sidelined after controversial clauses were introduced late in Parliament, leading to widespread frustration.
Officials now hope that clearer instructions and early engagement will encourage Kenyans to send well-structured proposals. In previous years, suggestions from ordinary taxpayers have led to policy adjustments.
The deadline for submissions is December 31, 2025. The Treasury has made it clear that late entries will not be accepted.
With the window now open, Kenyans have a short period to influence the tax policies that will take effect from July 2026.
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