Musalia Mudavadi, Prime Cabinet Secretary (CS), has encouraged critics of the Finance Bill 2023 to provide the government with an alternative cash source to maintain the country's economy and operations.

Speaking to members of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) at the Bomas of Kenya on Thursday, Mudavadi slammed opponents of the law who allege the government is punishing taxes on Kenyans.

PHOTO | COURTESY Mudavadi 

Mudavadi stated that the country's condition necessitates tough decisions, some of which will be painful in the short term but benefit Kenyans in the long run.

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"Do not simply criticize and oppose what the government proposes while failing to provide an alternative for how we will fill the existing gaps." For those who disagree, we ask, "What is the alternative preposition?" Mudavadi posed for the camera.

"Because we are on a journey to revamp our economy, and as government, we should grow our people, we must approach this conversation holistically." This debate about the Finance Bill 2023 must be changed. No country in the world can survive without taxes."

The CS also urged House members to support the government in changing the present debate on the Finance Bill 2023, stating that the government is concerned about the citizens.

PHOTO | COURTESY Musalia Mudavadi

"The truth is that the pain we are experiencing as a nation is due to fewer people paying taxes, and the tax-man has repeatedly returned to the same people." So, we need to find a way to broaden that space and make some sacrifices, which will be difficult at first, but once we change the discourse, Kenyans will realize the government cares about them," Mudavadi added.

The Prime Secretary also defended the new housing levy, claiming that it has been misconceived and politicized to make Kenyans feel the government is burdening them and that politicians encouraging Kenyans to oppose the policy are devious and selfish.

He added that the discussion should shift from mere rhetoric to how effectively the fund will be managed and how to provide shelter to Kenyans as a constitutional requirement, just as the government is required to provide food, clean water, universal health care, and other services.