- The Finance Bill, 2024 was published on May 9 and is set to be subjected to public participation thereafter.
- The Bill contains tax proposals that the Kenya Kwanza government wants to use to raise revenue and finance its ambitious projects.
Image: KALONZO MUSYOKA / X
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has threatened to organise nationwide demonstrations against the proposed Finance Bill, 2024.
Kalonzo on Wednesday stated that Kenyans have the freedom to go to the streets and demonstrate.
He said the government should know that revolutions begin sometimes in the street and in quiet places.
According to him, the demonstrations held in 2023 were meant to push the government to lower the cost of living.
"As a coalition, we are ready to go back to the streets if that is what it takes. I hope you are bold enough. Be ready ladies and gentlemen," he said.
"If you feel a little weak that you think you can't withstand another round of demonstrations, then go eat something strong because we need you and this country needs you," Kalonzo said.
The Finance Bill, 2024 was published on May 9 and is set to be subjected to public participation.
The Bill contains tax proposals that the Kenya Kwanza government wants to use to raise revenue and finance its ambitious projects.
One of the proposals is the introduction of a Motor Vehicle Tax, at a rate of 2.5 per cent of the vehicle's value.
The minimum tax payable to the commissioner on each vehicle at the time of issuance of insurance cover will be Sh5,000 with a maximum amount of Sh100,000.
The Bill states that the calculation would be based on make, model, engine capacity and year of manufacture.
On Affordable Housing, the Bill places a caveat to all the owners of the houses by amending section 54 of No.4 of 2024 on its restrictions.
It states that except with prior consent of the board, a purchaser of a unit shall not by contract, agreement or otherwise sell his or her unit or any interest therein to any other person.
On Wednesday, President William Ruto defended the government’s plan to impose additional taxes on Kenyans.
The President said that it was the only way to get the country out of debt.
"I am not going to preside over a bankrupt country, I am not going to preside over a country that is in debt distress. We have to cut our spending," Ruto said.
The President said he intends to raise the country’s average tax rate from 14 per cent to 16 per cent by the end of 2024 and aims for between 20 and 22 per cent by the end of his term in office.