Atwoli's urgent message to Uhuru

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli on Wednesday appealed to President Uhuru Kenyatta to sign the Finance Bill 2018 and do away with the 16% VAT on petroleum products forever.

Speaking during a press conference at Solidarity Building, Atwoli also threatened that he may be forced to call for workers’ strike if things do not change.

He further Labour CS Ukur Yattan to Gazette the 5% wage increment he announced on Labour Day, saying he is failing workers.

The Head of State is currently under pressure to act swiftly and prevent fuel prices from going up.

On Monday, the Orange Democratic Movement warned the government against too much borrowing saying it should seek an alternative to avoid future economic problems.

“It is worth reminding the Government that when it chooses to over-borrow and over-spend, without due consideration for the suffering of the people and a shrinking economy, it should find other means to deal with its shortsightedness and allow the citizens to nurse their pain in peace,” said the party’s Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.

In a statement seen by Ureport, Sifuna criticised other leaders saying it would be hypocritical for them to remain silent in the face of economic genocide, “for tomorrow we may not find anyone to lead".

Last week the High Court suspended implementation of 16 percent VAT following an application by three petitioners.

In their application, the petitioners faulted the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich for allowing implementation of the new tax charge on fuel under the Finance Act (2013).

Atwoli, in his speech, further urged the government to destroy contraband sugar that was imported since it is now being repackaged and sold in branded packs.

His sentiments were echoed by Chairman Rajab Mwondi and Vice Chairman Joel Chebii who cautioned the government against taxing poor Kenyans.