Infotrak Poll Reveals Overwhelming Opposition to Finance Bill 2024 Proposals
A recent opinion poll conducted by Infotrak Research firm has shown that a staggering 83% of Kenyans are opposed to the Finance Bill 2024 proposals. The poll, which was conducted between May 25 and May 29, 2024, surveyed 1,700 respondents across all 47 counties and eight regions in the country.
The poll highlights several key issues that have contributed to the widespread opposition to the Finance Bill. One of the most contentious proposals is the introduction of a 16% Value-Added Tax (VAT) on bread, which has been met with fierce resistance from the majority of Kenyans. An overwhelming 87% of those polled are opposed to this measure, with many citing the already high cost of living as a major concern.
Another unpopular proposal is the introduction of VAT services on financial transactions such as M-PESA. An astonishing 86% of respondents are opposed to this measure, with many expressing concerns about the additional financial burden it would place on individuals and businesses.
The poll also revealed that Kenyans are strongly opposed to the introduction of a 2.5% tax on the value of motor vehicles. A significant 81% of those polled are against this measure, with many arguing that it would further increase the cost of living and negatively impact the economy.
Furthermore, the poll showed that Kenyans are also opposed to the proposal to exempt the disclosure of personal data by data controllers to the taxman. An impressive 83% of respondents are against this measure, with many expressing concerns about the potential impact on their privacy and data security.
The poll also highlighted the widespread dissatisfaction among Kenyans with the current state of the economy. A significant 63% of those polled believe that the country is headed in the wrong direction, with the skyrocketing cost of living (45%) and unemployment being cited as major concerns.
The Infotrak poll has revealed a clear and overwhelming opposition to the Finance Bill 2024 proposals among Kenyans. The poll highlights the need for the government to reconsider these measures and engage more effectively with the public to address their concerns about the economy and the proposed taxes.
