Religious leaders have asked President William Ruto to repeal the Finance Act 2023 as an immediate measure to help stabilise the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, leaders from the Kenyan Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and the National Council of Churches in Kenya (NCCK) urged the President to allow his administration to implement policies and strategies that give Kenyans hope while addressing the country’s economic challenges in the short and long term.
“There are many families that are sleeping hungry, businesses have collapsed, jobs have been lost, and the cost of living is continuing to rise. Without this approach, Your Excellency, we fear that the growing sense of hopelessness will push the country into instability and possibly violence.”
“As an immediate mitigation measure, Your Excellency, we recommend that the Finance Act 2023 is repealed so as to review the heavy taxation burden imposed on Kenyans. In addition, we urge a cessation of domestic borrowing by the government so as to enable banks to loan private businesses that drive the local economy,” the leaders said.
The Finance Act 2023, taxes, and the high cost of living have been major points of contention in Kenya, fueling the opposition’s recent nationwide protests led by Raila Odinga.
The Act is currently suspended following a ruling by the High Court on Monday. Chief Justice Martha Koome is expected to convene a bench of judges to hear the case seeking to halt the Act’s implementation.
Azimio supporters took to the streets on Wednesday, fighting bonfires and pelting stones in protest of the high cost of living.
The NCCK has urged Odinga to lead an issue-based and solution-oriented approach in order to keep the country from devolving into chaos.
“We recognize the critical constitutional role that the opposition plays in safeguarding democracy and justice in our nation. We, therefore, appeal to you, Rt Honorable Raila, to recognize the key position you hold and the contribution you make in shaping the current and future of our nation,” the Council said.
The church also urged Kenyans to remain calm, avoid protests during difficult times, and remember the nation’s prayer through the national anthem.
