Speaking in a series of campaigns in Kiambu County on Sunday, April 11, the DP argued that 2022/2023 Budget, which was presented on Thursday, April 7 in parliament by Treasury CS Ukur Yatani, was punitive and meant to further increase the cost of living.
He took issue with the proposed levy on motorcycles commonly known as boda boda, as well as the ever spiking prices of basic commodities, especially food.
“The budget was unveiled the other day. That budget seeks to increase the price of water, flour, sugar as well as Boda Boda fees.
“We want to tell you that the budget cannot sail through Parliament. If it passes, three months later, we shall revise it to cater to regular Kenyans,” he revealed.
His allies who were on the campaign trail with him including Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua and his Kiharu counterpart Ndindi Nyoro vowed to ensure that a supplementary budget is presented before Parliament.
“We want that when William Ruto takes charge, he drops the boda boda fees. We want a President who can drop the cost of foodstuff,” stated Gachagua.
“We are going to bring a supplementary budget, to bring down taxes so that the cost of living goes down,” explained Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki.
In the Ksh 3.3 trillion budget, the boda boda sector was among the biggest losers together with three-wheeler owners and operators, whom CS Yattani proposed must have insurance covers for themselves and their passengers.
The CS also went hard on the gambling and alcoholic beverages, terming them as hazardous habits. Yattani introduced a 15 per cent exercise duty on the revenue paid for the running of a gambling or alcoholic drink advert.
Treasury is banking on an expanded tax bracket and loans to finance President Uhuru’s Kenyatta’s last budget.
Tax defaulters were also targeted following a proposal to have them deposit 50 per cent of disputed tax revenue pending the hearing and determination of the case filed by the taxman.
Source: KENYAGIST.COM