The Kiharu legislator has spoken against plans to impose extra charges on farm products, emphasizing that farmers should be shielded from excessive taxation rather than facing increased financial obligations.
The MP stated that tea, coffee, and food crops continue to form the foundation of Kenya’s economy and support the primary income for countless families. He cautioned that tax hikes in agriculture would negatively impact farmers nationwide and appealed to parliamentary tax committees to reject any increases, particularly on tea.
“We will not tolerate any additional charges on tea. Our responsibility as leaders is to lessen citizens’ financial burdens, not increase them,” he emphasized.
The ex-chair of the Budget and Appropriations Committee also expressed alarm over national borrowing practices, noting that Kenya is accumulating debt at an alarming rate. He asserted that the nation is acquiring approximately KSh4 billion in net debt daily, exclusive of loans for refinancing current liabilities.
The legislator cautioned that persistent borrowing would impose heavy obligations on future generations and demanded enhanced accountability in the management and expenditure of public funds.
He additionally condemned proposals to utilize Housing Levy collections as loan security, characterizing the approach as irresponsible and illegal. He contended that borrowing against anticipated Housing Levy revenues would subject Kenyans to greater economic hardship.
“The Housing Levy is already contentious. Employing it as guarantee for additional borrowing is inappropriate and reckless,” he stated.
The MP also challenged the openness of government borrowing processes, insisting that Parliament must thoroughly examine all decisions that expand the nation’s indebtedness.
Regarding the planned infectious disease research center in Laikipia, the MP refuted assertions that resistance stems from false information, asserting that Kenyans possess sufficient details to make sound judgments about the initiative.
He referenced actions taken by the United States government concerning Ebola risks, noting that such measures validate citizen concerns that should not be disregarded.
The legislator urged authorities to heed public apprehensions before advancing with the Laikipia project or comparable undertakings, stressing that public confidence must be paramount.
He is advocating for judicious financial administration, decreased farm taxes, and measures that alleviate the living expenses for average Kenyan citizens.