President William Ruto has issued a stern warning to individuals in positions of influence against leveraging power and connections to evade tax obligations.
Speaking during the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) National Taxpayer’s Day on Friday, November 3, Ruto revealed that he had received an alarming message from a concerned Kenyan regarding a company allegedly operating without paying its taxes.
The Head of State noted that he promptly forwarded the information to the Commissioner General of KRA.
“I got a very interesting message yesterday from a patriotic Kenyan and I sent it to the Commissioner General of KRA, about a Kenyan who is saying there is this company that does not pay tax and they threaten people because it belongs to some senior guys. So I sent the contacts to the KRA CG,” Ruto revealed.
The President emphasized the importance of fair taxation and the obligation of all Kenyan citizens, regardless of their status, to fulfil their tax responsibilities.
He stated that no one should exploit their positions, connections, or power to intimidate or threaten the KRA into avoiding their tax obligations.
“Nobody should threaten KRA using their positions, connections, and power for them to avoid paying tax.”
Ruto stressed that KRA is tasked with ensuring that tax payments are fulfilled and should not be hindered by undue influence or power plays.
“I recognise the cardinal obligation of government to utilize all revenues prudently and efficiently in the service of our citizens. This commitment stands, and we are committed to doing so with maximum transparency and accountability,” he affirmed.
Ruto also conveyed his satisfaction with the discussions among Kenyans regarding the taxes they were contributing, rather than focusing on the mounting national debt.
“A while ago, the conversation was how much of the debt is allocated to even children who are not yet born…public debt…I’m happy that this time round we’re having a conversation about, not debt, but taxes,” Ruto noted.
BY K24 NEWS