Ndiritu Muriithi, the newly appointed Chairperson of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), has promised to focus on building trust between the tax collector and taxpayers. Muriithi, who was sworn in at the Supreme Court by Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Boyani Mokaya, emphasized the importance of a service culture based on trust and integrity at KRA’s various touchpoints with clients.
The former Laikipia County Governor’s appointment comes at a critical time for KRA, following the dismissal of 25 employees for unethical conduct during the months of July, August, and September 2024. Muriithi has made it clear that the disciplinary actions taken are part of a broader commitment to uphold accountability and integrity within the agency, aiming to enhance public confidence in Kenya’s tax administration system.
In his remarks, Muriithi underscored that the reforms would not stop with personnel changes. He highlighted the need for KRA to model itself on major global tax collecting agencies, ensuring its services are efficient and taxpayer-friendly. This push for reform aligns with President William Ruto’s vision of expanding the country’s tax base, a mission that has seen a strategic reshuffle of government positions, with Muriithi’s appointment being a key part of this initiative. Muriithi replaces Anthony Mwaura, who has been reassigned to head the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA).
One of the significant measures KRA has introduced under Muriithi’s leadership is a six-month tax amnesty. The initiative allows tax defaulters to clear any arrears accrued until December 31, 2023, with a waiver on interest and penalties. This move is seen as a proactive approach to addressing the country’s tax compliance challenges and offering defaulters an opportunity to settle their dues without the burden of additional financial penalties.
Muriithi’s appointment comes as the government seeks to reform Kenya’s tax system amid growing calls for improved public service delivery. With an emphasis on transparency, service delivery, and accountability, Muriithi is set to lead KRA through a challenging yet transformative period in the country’s fiscal landscape.
As Kenya continues to grapple with economic challenges, Muriithi’s leadership promises to play a pivotal role in reshaping KRA into a more effective, trusted institution that can support the government’s fiscal and development goals. His leadership will be closely watched as the nation strives to expand its tax base and boost revenue collection.
