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The 2023 finance law, which included increased fuel taxes, a housing levy, and higher top-income tax rates, triggered opposition-led protests and unrest, leading to over 60 deaths in June and July. In response, Ruto withdrew this year’s bill, delaying an International Monetary Fund (IMF) disbursement.
Kenya’s Supreme Court overturned an appeals court decision that had nullified the 2023 finance law. This is a victory for President William Ruto’s administration. The government had been relying on the 2023 law to continue tax collection after withdrawing this year’s finance bill due to widespread protests.
The 2023 finance law, which included increased fuel taxes, a housing levy, and higher top-income tax rates, triggered opposition-led protests and unrest, leading to over 60 deaths in June and July. In response, Ruto withdrew this year’s bill, delaying an International Monetary Fund (IMF) disbursement. Ruto maintains that tax hikes are crucial for funding development and addressing Kenya’s debt.
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