Azimio reaffirms call for rejection of Finance Bill 2024
Politics
By
Denis Omondi
| Jun 14, 2024
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.
READ MORE
Real estate posts high productivity as challenges hit wholesale, retail sectors
How container cash deposits are creating a problem for Kenyan traders
Fresh test for Ruto as IMF urges new tax policies to unlock loans
Kenya's nuclear power plan faces significant cost hurdles
Healthcare and business: Diana Okello's journey in aviation medicine niche
How access to credit is boosting tech adoption, earnings for SMEs
'Wrong e-mail address' claim fails to stop Sh283m JKIA tender
State roots for maritime workers' rights, fair pay
Tullow still pursuing strategic partner, says oil plan on course
“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.