Kenyan Government to Reintroduce Eco Levy Proposals

Kenyan Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi is planning to reintroduce the controversial Eco Levy and 48 other amendments from the rejected Finance Bill 2024, which faced significant public backlash. MPs Robert Mbui and Peter Salasya have both criticized this move, warning that it could exacerbate economic challenges and incite further protests, particularly among the younger generation. Mbadi has assured that sensitive items like sanitary pads will be exempt from the levy, which aims to target environmentally harmful products. The government seeks to raise an additional Ksh150 billion through these amendments, which are part of a broader strategy to improve the country's revenue base. Despite Mbadi's assurances, critics remain skeptical, citing concerns over the impact of increased taxes on the cost of living and economic stability. The National Treasury plans to enhance public participation in the process to avoid previous mistakes that led to widespread protests.