President William Ruto of Kenya has reinstated controversial taxes that were previously scrapped following deadly protests in the country.
The reinstated finance bill is projected to generate nearly $1.2 billion.
Kenya’s finance minister, John Mbadu, revealed that the government is considering around 49 tax measures to raise approximately 150 billion shillings ($1.2 billion).
This decision follows President Ruto’s warning of a funding shortfall that resulted from the suspension of tax increases in June after violent protests in Nairobi.
The reintroduced measures include an “eco levy” on electronic items and plastic packaging, aimed at addressing environmental concerns.
In a move to address the grievances of protesters, President Ruto’s government also expanded the cabinet to include opposition leaders.
READ ALSO: U.S Govt Calls President Ruto, Reminds Him of Kenyans’ Right to Protest; Urges Respect for Freedoms
The protests, which turned deadly, forced the government to cut spending and increase borrowing to cover the budget deficit.
The new tax measures are expected to be implemented by the end of September.
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