The High Court has certified as urgent a petition challenging several provisions of the Finance Bill 2026, but declined to grant conservatory orders sought by the Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK).

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In directions issued on Tuesday, June 16, Justice David Mburu ordered that the petition be served on the respondents by close of business on June 17, 2026.

He further ordered the respondents, including the National Treasury and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), to file their responses within seven days, with the matter set for mention on June 25.

"This matter is coming up for directions before Justice David Mburu. Upon considering the said application, i t is hereby ordered that the application is certified urgent," the court stated.

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"That the application and petition be served physically by the close of business 17/6/2026, and a return of service be filed," the court document further read.

The judge cautioned that any disobedience or non-compliance with the orders served upon the parties would result in penalties against those found to be in breach of the court's instructions.

COFEK had moved to the Milimani Law Courts seeking conservatory orders to stop the enactment and enforcement of several provisions in the Finance Bill 2026 pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The body argued that the Finance Bill 2026 is in its final stages in Parliament and could become law before the court rules on the constitutional issues raised in the petition.

"The legislative process is ongoing and nearing its final stages, creating a risk that the disputed provisions could become law before the court considers the constitutional issues raised," the petition states.

Filed through its Secretary General, Stephen Mutoro, on Monday, June 15, COFEK claimed that the proposed amendments raise constitutional concerns relating to consumer protection, privacy rights, public participation and fair taxation.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke