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Prepare for fresh wave of taxes, Azimio warns

Azimio Coalition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka, Opiyo Wandayi, Eugene Wamalwa, George Wajackoya, Mwangi Wa Iria and Nderitu Muriithi. They warned Kenyans to prepare for tough economic times should the government implements its budget proposals. (BARACK ODUOR)

By Barack Oduor | Thursday, February 22, 2024

They urged Kenyans to prepare for a new wave of taxation if the government gets its way in the BPS that is before parliament.

Azimio La Umoja has warned Kenyans to prepare for tough economic times should the government implement its budget proposals geared to increase taxes.

The opposition leaders on Thursday claimed the Budget Policy Statement (BPS) being processed in Parliament is injurious to the economy and will make life unbearable to Kenyans.

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They urged Kenyans to prepare for a new wave of taxation if the government gets its way in the BPS that is before parliament. President William Ruto's administration has, however, not announced the introduction of new taxes.

The Azimio meeting was graced by Wiper Leader Kalonzo, National Assembly Minority leader Opiyo Wandayi, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, former Presidential candidate George Wajackoya, ex-Governors Mwangi Wa Iria (Murang'a) and Nderitu Muriithi (Laikipia).

"If BPS is anything to go by, Kenyans must tighten their belts because Kenya Kwanza is coming for them in the new wave of taxation," Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka said.

"We commit to reject any further taxation by this regime," he added.

The former Vice President spoke after chairing the Azimio Summit meeting at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation (JOOF) in Nairobi.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga was not in the meeting because of his tour of Germany.

The opposition coalition accused the government of reckless borrowing that had plunged the country into a deteriorated economy.

"All indications show that life is unbearable in the country and that Kenyans are facing dry difficult times," said Kalonzo.

Kalonzo added that the opposition believes in creating an enabling environment for Kenyans and investors.

They argued that potential investors are running away from the country over difficult economic times.

"This regime is choking Kenyans with taxes. We want the people of Kenya to come first when this government is making its decisions," Kalonzo said.