Azimio MPs praise statement, Kenya Kwanza’s rubbish it
MPs had mixed reactions on this year’s Budget with those from the different political divide taking divergent views.
While those from the Azimio la Umoja welcomed the statement, their Kenya Kwanza counterparts termed it a burden to wananchi.
Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa dismissed the proposal by CS UKur Yatani to raise Sh2.4 trillion through taxes as unrealistic during an election year.
“These are unrealistic revenue estimates,” Ichung’wa said.
The MP described the Budget as more pro-business as opposed to pro- people.
But Rarieda MP Otiende Amolo welcomed the Budget, saying it gave hope to Kenyans as it sought to address the tough economic times.
“The work is not yet over, on Tuesday we will now sit down as the people’s representatives to look at the estimates presented by the CS and adjust figures where necessary,” Amolo said.
Sabatia MP Alfred Agoi said he did not think much from the Budget since as it has been the norm, the Treasury will come up with changes in subsequent Supplementary budgets.
“Much of what has been presented here today will be reversed in Supplementary budgets which the CS is likely to introduce soon as it has been the practice.
“Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro said this year’s Budget was against the common Kenyan.
“The CS has made huge deductions to areas where it hurts Wanjiku much like provision of water,” said Nyoro.
Kitui Central lawmaker Makali Mulu, who sits in the Budget committee said it is now upon MPs to ensure that taxes on basic commodities are not increased.
“This Budget is generally okay. What we have to ensure is that taxes for commodities like milk, fuel, gas among other common products used by Kenyans daily are not taxed more. At the same time, we will ensure that things like cigarettes and alcohol are taxed more because you can choose not to take alcohol because it is a luxury but you cannot choose not to eat,” said Mulu.
Tongaren MP Eseli Simiyu (pictured) termed the Budget as well balanced in tough economic times.
“I liked the proactive move by the government to at least provide something for fertilizer for our farmers and the security. The government really tried to strike a balance in all sectors since economies of the world were all ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic,” Simiyu said.
