Majority of Kenyans would Forfeit Government Services for Lower Taxes

According to Afrobarometer, a pan-African independent research network released a survey that indicated that the majority of Kenyans would prefer to be taxed less even if it would result in the government reducing the services offered to them. In the survey, 50 percent of the respondents had preferred fewer services from the government while 43 percent of the respondents approved higher taxes if it meant better and more government services would be delivered.

The report from the pan African research center indicated that nine in ten Kenyans found it difficult to know how their government utilizes the taxes it has collected. Seven out of ten Kenyans agree that tax authorities have always had the right to mandate individuals to pay their taxes.

From the report, 48 percent of Kenyans viewed the government positively in using the taxes collected for the well-being of the people while 43 percent disagreed with that assertion.

The amendments in the finance bills tend to directly affect Kenyan livelihoods as the taxes keep increasing to raise revenue for the state. The amendments have far-reaching implications for corporations and small businesses across the country.

Kenya‘s economic situation has turned from bad to worse with crippling debt repayments, troubling reports from manufacturers, and the rapid rise in the cost of living. With the budget read by treasury CS Ukur Yatani, Kenyans will expect increased tariffs on commodities.

The Kenyan government has increased its budget while focusing on the big four agenda and completing huge infrastructure projects that are meant to facilitate trade and boost the country’s economy.

Kenya’s elections In August are presumed to worsen the economic woes just like in every election cycle as individuals and corporations limit production and investment to uncertainty.