Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi on Friday divulged that the proposed income tax bill 2018 will negatively affect President Uhuru Kenyatta's plan to achieve his Big Four Agenda on establishing affordable housing for Kenyans.
Speaking during a press conference, Mudavadi faulted the Bill which seeks to tax Kenyans willing to purchase land in the country.
"In the proposed bill is passed, Uhuru will be like shooting himself in the foot. The bill does not in any way push for the achievement of his Big Four Plan on getting Kenyans affordable housing.
"President Uhuru ought to be advised to direct his officials at the Treasury not to impose 20% tax on the buying of land and acquiring of mortgages for Kenyans," Mudavadi added.
[caption caption="File image of President Uhuru Kenyatta and ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi"]
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The Income Tax Bill 2018, which promises a significant overhaul of the Income Tax Act, targets investors and potential homeowners who will have to part with at least 20% of the money they will use to acquire the piece of land or develop a building.
The NASA co-principal further asked Members of Parliament and Kenyans to reject the bill that is set to be presented in Parliament for approval ahead of Budget reading in July 2018.
He asserted: "The bill is not beneficial to the country. It will negatively impact the growth of the economy."
Commenting on the revealed Ksh9 Billion National Youth Service (NYS) scandal, the former Treasury Minister declared that it is a shame that the country is seeking funds to establish projects for developments yet state officials are embezzling those funds.
"It is a shame that stealing public resources has become a professional career," Mudavadi expressed.
On Thursday, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Margaret Kobia disclosed that she was not aware of the graft allegations and only heard of it from recent media reports.
Speaking before the Labour Committee, Kobia and her Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Rachel Shebesh defended themselves against the latest corruption claims at NYS.
At least three senior government officials are expected to be questioned by Members of Parliament over the new corruption scandal at NYS.
Those lined up for interrogation include Public Service Principal Secretary Lilian Mbogo, NYS Director General Richard Ndubai, and Health Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki.
[caption caption="File image of CS Margaret Kobia"]
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