The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has voiced its strong opposition to the introduction of new taxes, expressing concern that these measures are an underhanded way to reintroduce the controversial Finance Bill, 2024. In a press statement issued on Thursday in Nairobi, the bishops emphasized the growing financial burden on the Kenyan citizenry, questioning the rationale behind the continuous imposition of new and seemingly “unreasonable” taxes.
While acknowledging that taxes are essential for raising government revenue, KCCB stressed that the current tax regime is already overwhelming for many Kenyans, particularly the poor and marginalized communities. “The people’s cry must be heard,” said Bishop Maurice Muhatia, who delivered the statement on behalf of the conference. The bishops called for a more empathetic approach to taxation, warning that the new taxes could further deepen the economic challenges many families are facing.
The introduction of new taxes comes amidst an ongoing economic struggle for many Kenyans, particularly following the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The bishops expressed concern that the frequent tax hikes have become a daily occurrence, which they argued reflects a hidden agenda to reintroduce elements of the Finance Bill, 2024 that had been rejected by the public and legislators earlier in the year.
In addition to the economic concerns, the KCCB also addressed the disturbing trend of abductions, disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings that have been reported across the country. The bishops raised alarm over the increasing frequency of these incidents, which they described as heinous acts. “Who is behind these abductions, and why is the government unable to stop them?” the statement asked. The bishops’ concerns were particularly poignant given that these events are taking place in a climate where many families are still mourning the loss of loved ones during the violent demonstrations in June.
The KCCB’s statement underscored the failure of the government to address the ongoing crisis of human rights violations, questioning why more decisive action has not been taken to curb these unlawful acts. The bishops emphasized the importance of holding those responsible for the disappearances accountable and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld.
Another key issue raised by the bishops was the unmet promises made by the government, particularly regarding the payments owed to essential service providers, including faith-based hospitals. These institutions, which serve millions of Kenyans, are reported to be owed billions in outstanding dues, further exacerbating the challenges they face in providing care to vulnerable communities. The KCCB pointed out that this issue had been consistently raised with the government, but little action has been taken to address it.
The bishops also expressed their dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to various other social issues. They noted the hike in missionary work permits, the persistently high levels of youth unemployment, and the ongoing difficulties with the regulation of the education system and university loan schemes. These concerns, they argued, are contributing to a sense of neglect and frustration among the population.
Corruption, a longstanding issue in Kenya, was also addressed by the bishops. They urged elected leaders to fulfill their constitutional duties and take meaningful steps to combat corruption. The KCCB expressed frustration with what they described as heightened insensitivity and irresponsibility on the part of leaders, particularly in their failure to prioritize the welfare of the Kenyan people.
In conclusion, the KCCB’s statement is a call for accountability and a reminder that the government must address the pressing issues facing the country, from taxation and human rights violations to the unmet needs of vulnerable communities. The bishops have urged the government to listen to the concerns of its people and take concrete actions to alleviate their suffering and fulfill the promises made to them.
