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{
    "id": 1254415,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1254415/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 168,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Suba South, ODM",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Caroli Omondi",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "I would like to make it clear that there may be disagreements on this issue, but for the general public good, the Housing Levy is a good idea. What I want to suggest is that there should be a guaranteed minimum return on those who invest in this scheme, which should be benchmarked by the rate of Treasury Bills to protect the investments against inflation. I also want to suggest that we should have very robust ring fencing against corruption that is associated with such projects. Finally, I suggest that we remove the tax on income received from investments made by the public on the Housing Levy. On the charge on tax of non-residents, I would like to heavily recommend - because I was not in the Committee - that we avoid situations of double taxation or double jeopardy for non- resident Kenyans. We should respect international obligations that we have under double taxation treaties. An issue that I was going to object very strongly and has been addressed is the 20 per cent deposit on tax assessment when you appeal against the KRA decisions. Hon. Speaker, as a lawyer, you will know that those provisions that were proposed were tantamount to overturning the well- known principle of onus of proof on its head. However, that has now been overtaken by events. I am very happy that that particular issue has been addressed. On the issue of VAT on fuel, I understand very clearly that this is a conditionality from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). It also demonstrates how we do our politics in Kenya. It is very interesting that those who last year voted for the introduction of the 8 per cent VAT are this year completely opposed to it and those who opposed it last year are this year supporting it completely. Let me add my voice by stating that our economy is still fragile. We can hardly see the early green shoots of our recovery. I would have strongly wished to see that the 8 per cent is not introduced on the Fuel Levy because of the adverse impact it will have on everybody. On the 35 per cent tax, I agree with it. Those who earn more should pay more. Finally, let me put it on record that the House should be respected by all political parties. Members should not be intimidated or arm twisted on how they should conduct their business in this House. They should be free to vote with their conscience the way they wish for the public interest. Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker."
}