Okiya Omtatah claims he's been offered Ksh.200M to withdraw Finance Act petition

During his speech at the People's Anti-corruption Summit on Tuesday, Omtatah said he turned down the offers as it is an attempt to undermine the justice system. 

"We have to ensure that we abide by the law. They believe everyone has a price. Right now if you look at the money I have been offered to withdraw the petition (it) has reached 200 million. But I tell them, my price is one, if you can't govern vacate the office for those who can govern," said Omtatah.

The Senator expressed his commitment to upholding the principles of justice and fighting corruption. He vowed not to succumb to any attempts to compromise the integrity of the legal process, emphasizing that his petition was driven by a genuine concern for the welfare of the public and the economy.

A petition tabled by Omtatah led to a temporary suspension of implementation of the Finance Act 2023 by the High Court on June 30. 

Lady Justice Mugure Thande suspended the law from taking effect pending the hearing and determination of the suit filed by Omtatah.

The state later moved to court to have the orders lifted.  

However, in a ruling on July 10, judge Mugure Thande declined to set aside the orders suspending the Finance Act 2023.

"The petitioners have proved that they have a prima facie case....there's merit in granting conservatory orders," the judge noted.