Catholic Bishops Calls for Action Amid Rising Cost of Living and Over-Taxation

By Samuel Ouma

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has stated that the excessive taxation in Kenya is causing mental distress among its citizens.

In a statement, the bishops said that Kenyans have seen a significant increase in the cost of living over the last three years, with food produce fetching an all-time low in the market.

“On several occasions, we have addressed the issue of the cost of living and over-taxation. The reality of ordinary Kenyans is that they are struggling financially which has often led them to mental distress,” said KCCB.

The bishops said that the high cost of living and heavy taxation are caused by corruption in the government.

“We continue to be “heavily taxed” by corruption in our services systems! The issue of over-taxation should therefore be understood within this context,” added KCCB.

“While Kenyans are doing everything possible to adapt to the high cost of living, the Church stands with those who cannot afford to get food on the table, to take children to school, and to pay medical bills, unemployment also is at its highest,” said the bishops.

KCCB implored the government to improve public participation in assessing its tax regime.

This includes listening to the voices of the Churches and other faiths, who have been clear on what path may be most beneficial at this time.

“We should not intend to raise billions in a short span at the cost of great stress to ordinary Kenyans. We can develop slowly but with dignity,” they added.