Mudavadi challenges critics of Finance Bill to provide better alternative

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has challenged critics of the Finance Bill 2023 to come up with alternative avenues for revenue generation. While addressing the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) at the Bomas of Kenya on Friday, Mr Mudavadi acknowledged the challenging situation facing the country but highlighted the importance of supporting the country's economy and operations. "For those opposing the Bill, we are asking them to give us the alternative preposition. We have to look at this conversation holistically since we are on a journey to revamp our economy. As a government, we have an obligation to uplift our people. We must change the debate surrounding the Finance Bill 2023. No country globally can sustain itself without taxes," Mudavadi said. Also read: Ababu sends Azziad and entire Talanta Hela team packing He said while some measures may cause short-term discomforts, tough decisions are necessary attain long-term benefits for the country. Mr Mudavadi urged those opposed to the bill to not simply criticize without providing viable solutions to address the existing revenue gaps. He appealed to members of the chamber to support the government's efforts in reframing the current discourse on the Finance Bill 2023, emphasising that the government has the best interests of its citizens at heart. Mr Mudavadi also highlighted the need to address the issue of tax evasion. Also read: Details of star-studded launch of Talanta Hela at State House "The pain we are feeling as a nation is because fewer people have been paying taxes, and the taxman has repeatedly returned to the same individuals. We need to broaden the tax base and make necessary sacrifices, which may be initially painful. Once we change the narrative, Kenyans will realize that the government's intentions are for the greater good," he said. The proposed Financial Bill has been a bone of contention between the Kenya Kwanza government and the Raila Odinga-led Azimio la Umoja - One Kenya Coalition. However, President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua have been strongly advocating for the Bill while urging the National Assembly to pass it. Also read: Gaucho – Why Rosemary Odinga is my heroine