Government Responds After Traders Boycott Tax Payments
Hours after business owners in Londiani, Kericho County, took to the streets in protest, the county government addressed their concerns, assuring them that their grievances had been acknowledged. Officials pledged to review the taxation policy to find a suitable resolution.
Kericho County Revenue Officer, Kipruto Sang’, responded to the outcry from over 2,000 traders who had shut down their businesses in defiance of the newly imposed license fees.
The traders argued that the higher charges were unfair, given the difficult business environment they were already facing.
Governor Dr. Eric Mutai had introduced the increased business license fees despite promising during his campaign that he would lower taxes if elected.
The move has triggered frustration among local traders, who feel that the hike is unjustifiable, particularly because the county has not provided adequate services such as clean water, electricity, and sanitation facilities.
Many business owners believe they should not be required to pay higher fees while essential infrastructure remains neglected.
In response to the sudden rise in fees, the traders issued a 14-day ultimatum, demanding that the county government address their concerns before they consider making any payments.
“The licenses we were given have issues, and we will not pay the increased fees until the governor and the relevant county officials come here to have a proper discussion with us,” stated Isaac Owino, a businessman in Londiani.
He further explained, “We have been struggling with water shortages for a long time, and despite constant engagement with the county, nothing has changed.
The national government has now allowed Kenyans to refuse to pay for business licenses if essential services are not provided. So we are taking a stand—we will not pay until our concerns are addressed.”
The chairperson of the local business community described the county government’s move as a heavy burden on small traders, making business operations more unpredictable. He emphasized that in a country already grappling with high unemployment rates, such policies only add to economic hardship.
Many traders also questioned the rationale behind the tax increments, arguing that while revenue collection had increased, there was no visible improvement in services or infrastructure that directly benefited businesses. They urged the county to involve them in future taxation policies to prevent unnecessary disruptions and ensure fairness.
Governor Mutai, in his response, assured traders that he had taken note of their complaints and was committed to easing their financial strain. He promised to work towards solutions that would support the growth of local businesses.
The protests were sparked by a significant increase in business permit fees introduced in 2024. The county raised the standard business permit from Ksh4,000 to Ksh8,000—a 50% hike.
Meanwhile, contractors were hit with a steeper increase, as their permit fees jumped from Ksh5,000 to Ksh23,000. This sharp rise led to legal action, with contractors moving to court to challenge the decision.
Traders remain firm in their demand for fair taxation and improved services before complying with the county’s new business permit rates.
Join Gen Z official Whatsapp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
