On Tuesday, Spanish tax authorities brought forth fresh charges against music icon Shakira, alleging her failure to pay over $7 million (approximately Ksh 1 billion) in taxes in a single year. This marks the second instance where the country has accused the international pop sensation of engaging in income and wealth tax fraud.
Fondly referred to as the 'Queen of Latin Pop,' Shakira has chosen to face trial in November in Barcelona. She vehemently denies any wrongdoing in a case where she is accused of not paying 14.5 million euros (approximately Ksh 2 billion) in taxes for the period 2012-2014. If convicted, she could face a sentence of up to eight years.
In the recent case, the prosecutor alleges that in 2018, Shakira omitted to report earnings of $12.5 million (approximately Ksh 1.7 billion), including an advance payment for her El Dorado World Tour, among other sources.
At that time, Shakira was in a relationship with FC Barcelona soccer star Gerard Pique and living in the city with their two children.
They are now separated.
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Prosecutors argue that she was resident in Spain and so required to tax all her worldwide revenues there, no matter where they were earned.
Instead, they say, Shakira diverted money to "companies domiciled in countries with low taxation and high opacity".
The 46-year-old, renowned for selling millions of records globally and headlining the 2020 Super Bowl Halftime Show, is facing allegations of not fulfilling her income tax obligations. It is estimated that she owes 6 million euros (approximately Ksh 930 million) when factoring in accrued interest, despite having made voluntary payments.
The 'Hip's Don't Lie' hitmaker's legal team said she had not received any notification of the new case in Miami, where she is now based.
"Shakira's legal team is focused on preparing for the trial for the 2012-14 fiscal years, which will begin on Nov. 20," it said in an emailed statement.
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