Lari MP Mburu Kahangara has defended his support for the Finance Bill, 2024, stating that his decision was based on a thorough reading and analysis of the document. Kahangara emphasized that the bill contained provisions beneficial for both the country and his constituents.
“If I had known the bill would mislead the electorate, I would not have supported it,” Kahangara said, addressing his constituents. He also assured them that President William Ruto did not intend to introduce a bill that would burden the people. “I don’t see a reason why I should apologize. I supported the bill based on what I had read and understood.”
Speaking in Kimende town while issuing bursary cheques to students in day secondary schools, Kahangara disclosed that consultations with education officers, school principals, teachers, and boards of management led to a decision to reduce school feeding fees.
Under the harmonized feeding program, each parent is now requested to pay Sh2,000 per term, with the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) covering the remaining costs. Kahangara clarified that the government’s capitation system ensures that no student is sent home due to lack of funds.
Parents praised the legislator for this initiative, acknowledging the challenges they face in paying school fees due to dependence on casual jobs.
Lari deputy county commissioner Samuel Kariuki urged parents who had kept their children at home due to lack of school fees to return them to school immediately. He directed chiefs, their assistants, and nyumba kumi officials to ensure all children are back in school.
