William Ruto directs KRA not to close businesses over non-compliance
William Ruto directs KRA not to close businesses over non-compliance but rather, to resolve the disputes amicably with affected parties.
Speaking at an interdenominational thanksgiving service at Maua Stadium in Meru County on Sunday, Ruto noted that even though the taxes collected help in fostering the country’s economy, the KRA cannot use forceful means and even going to the extent of destroying and closing businesses to get the taxes.
He noted that he had an engagement with Kenya Revenue Authority and directed that they stop using force and other means to collect levies but talk to Kenyans with respect, so they pay their taxes.
“We have already agreed with them that they will have decorum and respect and we will plan together with them so that every Kenyan pays their tax, and I will be on the front line to pay my taxes so that the rest may follow my lead,” he said.
The President-elect further noted that the country has a good opportunity to revive the ailing state of its economy if the large appetite for borrowing is dealt with and businesses become compliant in paying their taxes.
“We have an opportunity to revive our economy. That opportunity is for us to stop borrowing money, and we must stop it. But for us to stop it, all of us who own a business must pay our taxes for us to have funds to run our nation,” he added.
With the Kenya Kwanza government’s move to support small businesses financially, Ruto urged those who will benefit from the ‘Hustlers Fund’ to remember to pay taxes so that they may be in a position to run their businesses well in the financial year that will follow.
According to the taxman, after the reopening of Keroche Breweries on July 29, the brewer declined to make good the payments as directed by the court.
KRA stated that Keroche was to pay Sh8million on August 6, Sh8million on August 30 and the current taxes worth Sh14.2million but the brewer failed to comply.
Keroche Breweries and KRA have been engaged in a tax impasse since May which has seen both parties move in and out of court after the taxman shut the factory.
Also read,
UDA MPs set to resign to join Ruto’s cabinet
KRA records highest tax collection in Kenya’s history
KRA staff to wear “body cameras” to curb tax cheating
Ruto’s confidant Ndindi Nyoro emerges as the largest individual shareholder in Kenya Power
Follow us
