Entry Instance

HTTP 200 OK
Allow: GET, PUT, PATCH, DELETE, HEAD, OPTIONS
Content-Type: application/json
Vary: Accept

{
    "id": 1590424,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1590424/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 354,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Molo, UDA",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Kuria Kimani",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "In view of the existing legal framework and concerns raised by Kenyans, the Committee concludes that the proposed amendment is both unnecessary and potentially unconstitutional. The Committee has remained consistent on this matter in previous finance-related measures brought before this House. This decision aligns with global best practices, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), a landmark privacy law that took effect in the European Union in May, 2018. Although GDPR is a European law, its principles have set global standards for data protection. They have also directly influenced Kenya’s Data Protection Act. These principles emphasise individual control, transparency and strict conditions for data processing. Upholding these standards is vital for protecting citizens’ privacy, maintaining public trust and ensuring that Kenyans regulatory environment remains credible, secure and investor-friendly in an increasingly digital world. The Committee proposes the introduction of a New Clause 28A to amend Paragraph 1 (c) of the Second Schedule of the Income Tax Act. It will allow telecommunication operators to claim investment allowance on the cost of spectrum licences, just as they currently do for items like optic cables. For spectrum licences acquired before 1st July 2025, the reduction will only apply to the remaining unclaimed portion and will be spread over the remaining useful life of the licence. The Committee fully supports this proposal, as it aligns with our agenda to access digital transformation and youth empowerment. Spectrum licences are a key investment for telecommunication companies. Allowing tax reduction will ease the cost burden and encourage further investment in digital infrastructure. This expansion will create opportunities for young people by improving access to digital services, supporting digital entrepreneurship and driving job creation in the technology and innovation sectors. Despite Kenya being one of the countries with the highest mobile connectivity, there are still some places in this country without network. Therefore, this particular incentive will incentivise our telecommunication companies to have more mobile connectivity, including some places in my Constituency like some lower parts of Mariashoni. This Committee's proposals reflect not only stakeholders’ input, but also a sound economic reasoning grounded in fiscal stimulus principles. By incentivising housing, manufacturing and green energy, the Finance Bill supports aggregate demand, promotes employment and stimulates growth in all, while preserving fiscal discipline. As we deliberate the Finance Bill, 2025, it is crucial to prioritise measures that effectively, expand our tax base and enhance revenue generation. This may involve innovative The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor."
}