Azimio reaffirms call for rejection of Finance Bill 2024

Azimio Coalition leaders address the media on June 14, 2024. [Okumu Modachi, Standard]

The Azimio coalition has directed its members to oppose the Finance Bill 2024 during its presentation in the National Assembly on June 18.

The bill, which includes proposals for a motor vehicle tax, withholding tax on digital services, excise duty on money transfer services, and an eco-levy, has been criticised for its potential economic impact.

"We reaffirm our stand that all well-meaning Kenyans must oppose the Finance Bill 2024," said Azimio co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka on Friday, June 14.

Kalonzo noted the bill's measures, which are projected to increase taxes by Sh24,000 per Kenyan annually, unfairly target ordinary citizens.

The coalition has mobilised support from the public and civil society groups to demand a revision of the tax proposals, which it says will exacerbate the cost of living.

"If the bill is passed as is, Kenyans must be prepared to give up their belts or what remains of them in the second wave of Kenya Kwanza taxes," Kalonzo warned.

At the same time, Azimio has raised alarms over alleged corrupt budgetary allocations within various ministries and state departments, estimating up to Sh1 trillion in misappropriated funds.

The National Assembly Finance Committee is currently convening in Naivasha to finalise its report on the Finance Bill after engaging in a two-week public consultation period.

Azimio's stance sets the stage for a contentious debate in the upcoming parliamentary session.