Ndindi Nyoro, the chairperson of the National Assembly Budget Committee, has called upon the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and other government agencies to involve the public before implementing new taxes. Addressing congregants during a church service on Sunday, the Kiharu Member of Parliament expressed concern over the heavy taxation burden faced by many Kenyans amid economic challenges.
Nyoro highlighted the impact of increased import duties, suggesting that such measures could adversely affect Kenyan businesses. He emphasized the importance of public participation in decision-making processes related to taxation, urging stakeholders to be engaged before any adjustments are made. According to Nyoro, this approach ensures that the concerns and perspectives of various sectors of society are taken into account.
Specifically, Nyoro cited the recent increment in import duty from Ksh. 2 million to Ksh. 3 million as an example that necessitated public consultation. He emphasized the need for dialogue with business owners to understand the potential implications of such changes and explore alternative solutions.
The lack of public participation in taxation decisions has been a longstanding issue, leading to controversies like the Housing Bill implementation. Nyoro highlighted the importance of involving the public in such matters to ensure transparency and accountability in governance.
In recent years, the judiciary has also raised concerns about the absence of public engagement in policy changes, questioning the government’s decision-making processes. Nyoro’s remarks underscore the significance of inclusive governance practices to address the concerns and interests of all stakeholders effectively.
