Reprieve for Tabitha as Court Rules on Keroche's Closure

Keroche Breweries founder Tabitha Karanja (center) addressing the press.
Keroche Breweries founder Tabitha Karanja (center) addressing the press.
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Keroche breweries plant in Naivasha, Nakuru County is set to be reopened today after the taxman agreed to comply with directives issued by the High Court.

In a statement released on Thursday, July 28, the Nakuru senatorial candidate indicated that she received a letter granting her company permission to resume operations. 

Tabitha was also ordered to be present at the 11 am ceremony set to be graced by the taxman. The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate pledged that she would strive to fulfil her tax obligations

Deputy President William Ruto (right) welcomes Tabitha Karanja to UDA on Wednesday, January 26, 2021.
Deputy President William Ruto (right) welcomes Tabitha Karanja to UDA on Wednesday, January 26, 2021.
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"We solemnly undertake to pay our taxes as and when they fall due. In good time, we shall indeed settle all the underlying tax disputes. To our customers, stakeholders and well-wishers, we appreciate your concern and your continued support.

Tabitha further thanked the court for hearing the case and ruling in her favour. Justice Abigail Mshila had directed that the factory be opened before the taxman could present its case in court.

"I thank the Judiciary for their impartiality and judicious view of the underlying circumstances," she stated.

Keroche Breweries was shut down following a tax dispute with the taxman, a move Tabitha lamented forced her to retrench her employees. 

The closure also took centre stage at political rallies as Deputy President William Ruto and his allies accused the government of a witchhunt. 

“Your days are numbered. You cannot close down a business because of politics. These people want to destroy thriving local businesses,” the DP stated at a rally in Kakamega in June 2022.

On his part, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga - a long-time ally of Tabitha called on the government to intervene in the matter to protect the employees from losing their jobs. 

"If they can't pay today, they will pay tomorrow. They are Kenyans. Where will they run away and go to? Spread out the debt, if they can't pay today, help them to continue with their business," Raila stated. 

Raila Odinga and his running mate, Martha Karua arrive in Taita Taveta on Tuesday, July 12, 2022
Raila Odinga and his running mate, Martha Karua arrive in Taita Taveta on Tuesday, July 12, 2022
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Raila Odinga