Senior Economic Advisor Moses Kuria has set the record straight on his recent remarks about plans to have all mobile money payroll and till number accounts converted into electronic tax registers (ETRs).
The former Cabinet Secretary (CS) had announced that the government was planning to ensure that all traders using the aforementioned payment systems were linked to the tax register from December 25, in a move aimed targeted on tax evaders.
The senior economic advisor who was speaking during the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Summit 2024 on October 9, 2024, defended that the process will help the government collect more revenue.
“By Christmas 2024, all paybills will function as virtual ETRs. This will ensure that no business can evade tax, regardless of size. I know there is going to be some noise, but I want you tell me where we agree that someone will not pay taxes. Maybe I missed that point,” Kuria said.
His comments sparked debate among Kenyans who expressed dissatisfaction with the move as they were struggling to survive the lean times.
Kuria has since made a U-turn and dismissed the claims stating; “My attention has been drawn to media reports that my comments on Virtual ETRs at the KRA Summit yesterday were directed at MPESA only.”
Adding;
“This is erroneous as I meant all Payment Service Providers including Telcos and Banks. Its an industry issue.”
Kuria further disclosed ongoing plans to block SIM activations of mobile phones imported with no record proving payment of applicable taxes.
“Just like we will automatically block from activating on any network any mobile phone imported into the country with no record of having paid applicable taxes. Be guided accordingly.”
