WILL TAXATION LOWER THE COST OF LIVING?

Today, I wanted to shed light on a crucial topic: the impact of taxation on the cost of living and the burden it places on impoverished citizens. Specifically, I will address the context of the Kenya Kwanza government, urging them to cut excessive spending, end their alignment with the International Monetary Fund, combat corruption and misappropriation of funds, eradicate tribalism, and ensure respect for the constitution and the rule of law.

Taxation is a fundamental aspect of any functioning government, as it provides the necessary resources for public services, infrastructure development, and the welfare of citizens. However, it is essential to recognize that taxation alone cannot effectively lower the cost of living for the impoverished. In fact, in certain circumstances, it can become an additional burden for those already struggling to make ends meet.

One of the primary reasons why taxation does not lower the cost of living is the issue of government spending. The Kenya Kwanza government must address its exorbitant spending habits. If the government continues to spend excessively, it will require higher tax revenues to sustain its operations. This perpetuates a cycle of increased taxation, putting further strain on the already financially vulnerable citizens. It is crucial for the government to exercise fiscal responsibility and prioritize prudent financial management to alleviate the burden on the people.

Furthermore, it is disheartening to witness the government acting as an enforcement arm of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), seemingly prioritizing the interests of foreign masters over the needs of its own citizens. This has led to policies being made to favor international financial institutions at the expense of the impoverished population. The government must reevaluate its relationship with such entities and focus on policies that uplift its citizens, rather than pleasing external stakeholders.

Corruption and misappropriation of funds pose significant challenges to the equitable distribution of resources in Kenya. These practices divert public funds away from essential services and infrastructure development, perpetuating poverty and exacerbating the cost of living for the impoverished. It is crucial for the government to take decisive action in combatting corruption, promoting transparency, and ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately to benefit the people.

Tribalism, an unfortunate reality in Kenya, further exacerbates the struggles faced by we impoverished citizens. When government appointments and resource allocation are influenced by tribal affiliations rather than merit and need, it deepens inequalities and impedes progress. The government must embrace inclusive policies that prioritize competence and fairness over tribal considerations, fostering national unity and development.

Moreover, it is imperative for the Ruto's Kenya Kwanza regime to respect the constitution of Kenya and uphold the rule of law. Honoring the principles and provisions laid out in the constitution ensures that the government functions within the framework of a democratic society. This includes providing citizens with the right to protest, as stated in Article 37 of the Kenyan constitution. The National Police Service should not be used as a force to curtail the voice of the people but rather to protect their rights and maintain public safety.

Ultimately, Kenya is a sovereign state that should prioritize the welfare and interests of its citizens above any other entity. The government must actively work towards creating an environment that fosters economic growth, reduces inequality, and improves the standard of living for all Kenyans. By addressing excessive spending, ending alignment with external entities, combating corruption, eradicating tribalism, respecting the constitution, and protecting citizens' rights, Kenya can embark on a path of progress and prosperity.

All explained, It is crucial to understand that we were not out on the streets protesting because it was a form of entertainment or amusement. Rather, we were driven to such actions because we have been pushed to the brink by the oppressive circumstances we face every day.

The high cost of living has burdened us all. We struggle to make ends meet, finding it increasingly difficult to provide for our families and secure a decent livelihood. Basic necessities such as food, housing, healthcare, and education have become unaffordable luxuries for many. It is not a choice, but a necessity, to voice our concerns and demand change.

Furthermore, the punitive taxation policies imposed upon us have only exacerbated our struggles. We work tirelessly, pouring our blood, sweat, and tears into our jobs, only to find ourselves drowning in a sea of taxes. The burden of these taxes weighs heavily on our shoulders, leaving us with little to no disposable income to improve our lives or invest in our futures.

Moreover, the high-handedness of the government has left us feeling disheartened and disillusioned. We witness the lavish lifestyles of the few in power, while the majority of us continue to suffer. Corruption and a lack of accountability have eroded our trust in those who are meant to represent our interests. We have been denied the dignity and respect we deserve as citizens of this great nation.

In the face of these challenges, we turn to Article 37 of the Kenyan constitution. This fundamental provision guarantees our right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, picketing, and petitioning. It is a constitutional safeguard that allows us to express our grievances and demand change from those in power. We must hold onto this right tightly and exercise it when needed, for it is a powerful tool to bring about the necessary reforms.

It is disheartening to witness arrests and intimidation in response to our peaceful protests. However, we refuse to be deterred or silenced. Our spirit and aspiration for a country where all citizens can live in dignity and prosperity will not be extinguished. We stand united, resilient in our pursuit of a better future.

Let our voices be heard loud and clear. Let our demands for affordable living, fair taxation, and accountable governance resonate throughout the corridors of power. Together, we can create a society where the wellbeing of all is prioritized, where no one is left behind, and where the principles of justice and equality prevail.

We, the people of Kenya, stand united in protest against the Kenya Kwanza Finance Bill 2023. We are out to raise our voices and demand change in the face of exorbitant taxation amidst the skyrocketing cost of living. We firmly believe that this injustice will persist until our voices are heard and until Kenyans are accorded the dignity they deserve.

The burden of high taxation weighs heavily on the shoulders of ordinary citizens who are already struggling to make ends meet. It is a stark reality that the cost of living continues to rise, making it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to meet their basic needs. The current state of affairs leaves many trapped in a cycle of poverty, devoid of the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.

We refuse to accept this as our fate. We refuse to stand idly by as our hard-earned income is eroded, leaving us with little to no disposable income to improve our lives. We refuse to accept a system that perpetuates inequality and further marginalizes the most vulnerable among us.

Our protest is not fueled by a desire to disrupt or cause chaos. It is a peaceful and resolute expression of our collective frustration and determination for change. We demand that Ruto's government listens to our concerns and takes immediate action to alleviate the burden of excessive taxation.

We call on the Kenya Kwanza government to reevaluate its priorities and consider the impact of its policies on the lives of ordinary citizens. We urge them to engage in transparent and inclusive dialogue with the people, seeking solutions that promote fairness, equity, and social justice. It is crucial that our government recognizes the dignity of every Kenyan and works tirelessly to improve their quality of life.

We stand firm in our belief that a just and prosperous society can be achieved through responsible governance, where the needs of the people are placed above political interests and foreign pressures. We call for a government that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens, adopts prudent financial management, and invests in policies and programs that uplift the marginalized and empower the disadvantaged.

Together, we will continue to raise our voices until our demands are met. We will not relent in our pursuit of a Kenya where all citizens are afforded the dignity they deserve. We invite fellow Kenyans, civil society organizations, and international partners who share our vision of a fair and just society to join us in this fight for a better future.

Our unity is a testament to the power of collective action and the indomitable spirit of the Kenyan people. Together, we will create the change we seek, and together, we will build a nation that truly respects and uplifts its citizens.

Ojango Omondi Mc'Apondi