Church Leaders Demand Public Input on Proposed Tax Law

Religious leaders in Siaya County are pushing for public participation in response to the government’s proposal to tax churches and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Led by Archbishop Patrick Nyagudi of the Church of Christ in Africa (CCA), the leaders argue that Kenyans should be consulted before any new tax regulations are implemented.

Speaking at a church event in Alego/Usonga, Nyagudi highlighted that churches like the CCA don’t have large investments to tax. Instead, the limited income from tithes and offerings is often reinvested into charity work. He pointed out that churches already submit annual returns and make certain payments to the Attorney General’s office, making additional taxation unnecessary.

Rev. Nashon Adoche echoed Nyagudi’s concerns, emphasizing that many religious leaders already pay taxes on their private investments. He called for churches to remain exempt from further taxes, noting their role in community support.

Meanwhile, the presiding bishop of Malanga parish, Rev. Richard Arwa, urged for peace in the country and asked political leaders to avoid divisive rhetoric that could harm national unity.

Despite opposition from religious groups, the National Assembly’s Committee on Delegated Legislation recently backed the Income Tax Regulations Bill (Charitable Organizations and Donations Exemptions) 2024. The bill, introduced by former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u, seeks to clarify which charitable organizations qualify for tax exemptions and define the donations eligible for deductions.

However, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah reassured religious organizations that the bill will not proceed without proper consultations. He emphasized the importance of churches in the country, saying, “No nation can progress without strong churches.”

The debate around the bill continues, as leaders push for more dialogue and transparency in the decision-making process.