Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has advised President William Ruto to reduce taxes if he intends to increase revenue. In a statement on June 3, Senator Ledama expressed his belief that lowering taxes would incentivize Kenyans to start businesses and consequently contribute more to tax payments. He suggested that the Kenya Kwanza government should shift its focus from the arithmetic effect of raising taxes to the economic effect, which would ultimately lead to greater tax collection.
Senator Ledama argued that raising taxes would discourage investment in the country, potentially driving investors to seek opportunities in other African nations where they are welcomed. He specifically mentioned the agricultural sector as an example.
These sentiments align with those of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who has also urged the Kenya Kwanza government to refrain from burdening Kenyans with excessive taxation. Raila has emphasized the importance of consulting stakeholders and finding alternative ways to generate revenue without causing hardship to the people. He criticized the government for oppressing small-scale traders, such as the “mama mbogas” (women vegetable sellers), who are struggling to sustain their businesses.
In summary, Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has joined former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in calling for President William Ruto to lower taxes in order to stimulate business growth and increase tax revenue. Both politicians believe that overtaxing Kenyans will have negative consequences, including driving away potential investors and burdening small traders. They advocate for a more consultative approach to revenue generation, prioritizing the well-being of the people and the overall economic growth of the country.