President Ruto Faces Public Backlash as Kenyans Struggle with Soaring Taxes
Kenyans are calling President William Ruto ‘Zakayo,’ likening him to the biblical tax collector Zacchaeus, as he introduces and raises taxes since his election in 2022.
Despite acknowledging the pain caused by these taxes, Ruto defends them as necessary to reduce national debt. However, many Kenyans argue that the increased taxes only fund government extravagance, not public services.
Critics point to wasteful spending highlighted by the Controller of Budget, with concerns over excessive government travel. Ruto’s 40 international trips contrast with the loss of 70,000 private-sector jobs and business closures, prompting the Federation of Kenyan Employers to call for tax reviews.
Small businesses suffer under the heavy tax burden, leading to relocations and closures. Entrepreneurs express frustration with tax collectors’ perceived harassment, impacting transactions and leading to a shift to hard cash.
Since July, tax increases on salaries, housing, insurance, small businesses, and fuel have fueled deadly protests and a rising cost of living. Businesses in tourism, already hit by entrance fee hikes, face declining revenues, and some entrepreneurs are diversifying into other sectors for survival.
The Kenya Revenue Authority reports revenue growth below target, citing reduced demand for imports and challenges in the domestic market.
With the treasury struggling to meet financial obligations, many Kenyans hope for relief from President Ruto’s tax policies.
As the public awaits a possible change, the situation draws parallels with the biblical story, raising questions about the impact of these economic decisions on the nation’s well-being.( Source : BBC )
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67694865