Petition against introduction of taxes

By PAMELA CHEPKEMEI

Kiambu County: Residents of Kiambu County moved to court to nullify a controversial Bill seeking to introduce new taxes.

The residents yesterday accused Kiambu County Governor William Kabogo, his deputy and the executive committee of acting unconstitutionally by drafting the Finance Bill without consulting them.

The residents through an association called Jamofastar Welfare said the Bill if passed into law would not respect their constitutional rights to be respected after death.

“The petitioner’s constitutional rights to human dignity as guaranteed by Article 28 of the Constitution in particular the right to afford social amenities and the right to be respected after death, have been violated,” said Robert Gakuru, the chairman of the welfare association.

Rights violated

The residents contend that the Bill intends to levy taxes in a manner detrimental to their socio–economic wellbeing.

They want the court to stop the county assembly from passing the Bill into a law until the case is heard and determined.

“The petitioners have a right to be consulted and the right to participate in all national and county matters,” said Gakuru.

They contend that their rights to human dignity, equity, social justice, inclusiveness, human rights and non-discrimination have been violated.

According the new Bill a grave for an adult will cost Sh4,500, children Sh3,000 and infants Sh2,500. Burial certificates will cost Sh8,000 for citizens within the county, Sh10,000 for those dying outside the county and Sh25,000 for non-citizens.

Farmers will also pay new taxes. Cultivating an acre of land will attract Sh2,000 in tax and half and quarter acres will cost Sh1,000 and Sh500 respectively.