The new tax proposals in the Finance Bill, 2024 have rattled nearly all sectors of the economy. Every economic player is apprehensive that the new tax plan, if implemented, might run them out of business.
Ordinary Kenyans are also sweating in fear that the cost of living will exponentially rise. The fears are reasonable.
While the government is right to demand that Kenyans pay taxes to run their affairs, it is also prudent to let the people feel that their money is being put to good use.
President William Ruto has consistently said that his government will ensure prudent use of resources and that taxpayers' cash won't be swindled under his watch.
Reports by the Auditor General, however, paint a negative picture with state and public officers often flagged for not being able to account for public funds spent with their authority.
Audit reports have always shown that public funds are being splurged on travel, hotel seminars and per diems that often give little value to the taxpayers.
With just over three million Kenyans in formal employment and largely in the tax-paying bracket, it is prudent that the government considers its tax regime so that workers are not overburdened.
People naturally tend to resist when pushed to a corner and that could be where Kenyans already find themselves in light of the new tax measures. Their views ought to be factored into the final decision.
Quote of the Day: “Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one.”
Thomas Paine
The English American writer and political essayist died on June 8, 1809
