Ndidi Nyoro begs KRA to stop excessive taxation before public participation.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, who chairs the Parliamentary Budget Committee, has urged the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and other government agencies to conduct public participation before introducing new taxes. Nyoro’s statement comes amid concerns over the government’s plan to reduce the budget by Sh350 billion due to shrinking tax revenues.
In a recent church service, Nyoro acknowledged that heavy taxation is becoming unbearable for many Kenyans. He assured that the Kenya Kwanza administration will consult Kenyans widely on the Finance Bill 2024 before moving to the final stage.
“We have agreed as leaders that we are the servants of the people of Kenya and we know there is a Finance Bill proposal by the National Treasury, but the Constitution is also very clear that we listen to all Kenyans on matters public finance,” Nyoro said.
The MP emphasized that Kenyans will determine whether the Bill proposed by the Treasury would be adopted or rejected. He stated that the money raised through various tax avenues will be spent on uplifting Kenyans’ standards of living.
However, Nyoro’s stance contrasts with his previous endorsement of tax measures, as evidenced by a recent video that went viral on social media. In the video, Nyoro is seen ridiculing tax measures he once supported, highlighting the shifting dynamics in the government’s approach to taxation.
The Finance Bill 2024 has faced opposition from Azimio leaders, who argue that it will impoverish Kenyans. ODM deputy party leader Wycliffe Oparanya urged opposition lawmakers to shoot down the Bill, warning that they will return to the streets if Parliament passes the proposed law.
As the government prepares to present the budget estimates to the National Assembly, the public participation process on the Finance Bill 2024 will be crucial in determining the final outcome and its impact on Kenyans.
