Tag: Moses Kuria news

The government is set to implement a new tax collection system aimed at addressing tax evasion in Kenya’s informal sector, which has long been a challenge. Starting in December 2024, all transactions made through digital payment methods, such as paybills and tills, will be automatically monitored for taxation. This system is designed to ensure that even small businesses contribute fairly to the tax system.

Moses Kuria, the government’s senior economic advisor, explained that the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) will use these digital payment platforms as virtual electronic tax registers (ETRs). The initiative is part of a larger effort to expand the tax base and capture revenue from informal businesses that typically avoid paying taxes.

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Moses Kuria Defends Jacque Maribe Over PSC Appointment

Despite 16 million Kenyans being employed in the informal sector, only Ksh12 billion in income tax is collected from them annually, compared to Ksh500 billion from 3 million formally employed citizens. Kuria highlighted this disparity, noting that the new system aims to address it. “By Christmas 2024, every bill will function as a virtual ETR, ensuring no business, regardless of size, can evade taxes,” he said.

The new system is expected to significantly increase tax revenue by targeting previously untaxed informal businesses. Kuria stressed that the ultimate goal is to ensure fair tax contributions from both formal and informal businesses.

This initiative marks a major shift in Kenya’s tax collection approach. ETRs were first introduced in 2005 to streamline VAT collection and combat tax evasion, but they have limitations, as they depend on manual data entry, allowing room for error. By incorporating mobile payment platforms, the government aims to automate tax data collection, minimize errors, and close tax loopholes. Currently, only 200,000 ETR devices are in use, compared to over 2 million digital payment touchpoints.

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Moses Kuria trashes impeachment bid

Kuria also suggested that integrating the informal sector into the tax system could lead to a reduction in income taxes for formal sector workers. “Once informal businesses are fully taxed, we may be able to lower the burden on the 3 million formal employees currently carrying much of the tax load,” he noted.

With Kenya’s thriving digital economy, mobile payments have become a key aspect of daily life. As of August 2024, there were over 78 million registered mobile money accounts and around 400,000 active paybills and tills. This extensive digital network offers the government a strong tool to track transactions and recover lost revenue.

“There will be no place to hide,” Kuria concluded, emphasizing that Kenya’s digitized economy gives the government an advantage in expanding its tax base.

Public Service CS Moses Kuria has defended media personality Jacque Maribe after PSC chairman made a statement denouncing the appointment of Maribe as head of communications.

In the statement, the chairman stated that PSC was in no way involved in the appointment of Maribe, adding that the social media posts by Moses Kuria were null.

Moses Kuria Defends Maribe

Following the latter., Kuria has now come in defence of her friend, whom he claims has been a good friend for 16 years and that he’ll stand with her during this trying time.

“Meanwhile I stand with Jacque Maribe, my friend for the last 16 years and I will stand with her just like I stood with Gov Kawira Mwangaza in the wake of unjustified bullying,” he added.

In response to the alarming rise in femicide cases linked to short-term rental spaces, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has announced a crackdown on illegal operations. The government’s primary target: individuals renting out such spaces without proper certification or outside registered platforms like Airbnb.

Kuria’s statement, released on January 28, 2024, underscored the government’s deep concern about the “growing cases of crime and murders, mostly targeted at women in short-term rental spaces.” He pointed out that many of these rentals, including those involved in recent female murders, are deceptively labeled as “Airbnb” while transactions occur outside the platform’s secure framework.

This bypasses crucial Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, leaving authorities without vital information on renters and operators. In light of this vulnerability, Kuria declared, “The government will crack down on people offering such services outside the Airbnb or other authorized and licensed platforms.”

The rise in femicide cases within these unregistered spaces has become a chilling reality. One such case involved Starlet Wahu, whose tragic death sent shockwaves across the nation. Responding to a distress call, police discovered her lifeless body in a short-term rental booked and paid for outside a licensed platform.

Kuria’s initiative aims to prevent similar tragedies by instituting stricter regulations and enforcing mandatory platform registration. With verified identities and clear transaction trails, authorities will be better equipped to ensure the safety and security of renters, particularly women, who often face heightened vulnerability in these transient accommodations.

The crackdown signals a commitment to protect lives and hold landlords accountable. While platforms like Airbnb have implemented safeguards, the existence of unregulated spaces poses a significant risk. This decisive action by the government reflects the urgency of addressing this issue and prioritizing the safety of all, especially those seeking temporary lodging.

Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has dismissed calls for his impeachment, saying he is focused on his work and will not be distracted by such “noise.”

Kuria’s comments come in response to a motion filed by Senator Edwin Sifuna seeking his removal from office over allegations of misconduct and disrespecting the Senate.

“I am not shaken by the calls for my impeachment. I am focused on my work and delivering on the promises I made to the people of Kenya,” Kuria said.

“I will not be distracted by the noise from a few individuals who are trying to score political points.”

Kuria has been a vocal critic of the Senate, accusing the body of overstepping its authority and interfering with the work of the executive.

“The Senate is not a court of law,” Kuria said. “It is a legislative body, and it should focus on its core mandate of making laws.”

Kuria’s supporters say that he is a strong and independent leader who is not afraid to speak his mind.

“Moses Kuria is a breath of fresh air in Kenyan politics,” said one supporter. “He is not afraid to challenge the status quo, and he is always fighting for the interests of the common people.”

Kuria’s critics say that he is a loose cannon who is more interested in self-promotion than in serving the public.

“Moses Kuria is a liability to the government,” said one critic. “He is constantly making headlines for the wrong reasons, and he is damaging the reputation of the Kenya Kwanza administration.”

It remains to be seen whether Kuria will be able to weather the storm of controversy surrounding him. However, one thing is for sure: he is not going to go down without a fight.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has brushed off calls for his impeachment and removal from office.

Kuria, who has been embroiled in a series of public spats with Senators and journalists, said he is not fazed by the criticism and is focused on his job.

“Which hot seat? I am 52 years old, and out of which I have only been a minister for only one year, it is not a big deal,” he said in response to a question about his job security.

Kuria also denied allegations that he is disrespecting President William Ruto, saying he is a busy person working for the betterment of the country and would not want to engage in such discussions.

“I am not going to engage with those senators. They are still in session. Right now, the Senate is not a Senate, it is not a legislative house, it is a quasi-court, so out of respect for the laws of this country, let me not engage these people,” he added.

Kuria’s comments come after Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna called for his impeachment, saying he was embarrassing the Ruto administration.

Sifuna had accused Kuria of being “a national shame” and said that he should be removed from office for his “incorrigible” behavior.

“Mr. Speaker, even after your communication, the CS who should be asleep took to Twitter for another comment. Action must be taken,” Sifuna said.

“It casts very serious doubt on the appointing authority. First, he came for the media, and now he has come for the Senate.”

Senator Cheruyiot also weighed in on the matter, claiming that Kuria was an embarrassment to the Kenya Kwanza government and President William Ruto.

“Speaker, I agree with members of this house who have brought a motion of censure before you to discuss the conduct of this particular minister because every given opportunity, he has done nothing but embarrass the appointing authority,” he said.

“In fact, it is my submission, that the earlier CS Moses Kuria is let off his duties, the better for this administration because in every single day, in every action that he undertakes, he continues to embarrass the President and the People.”

Homa Bay Senator Otieno Kajwang also joined the chorus of criticism, calling Kuria an “embarrassment” to the country.

“He is an embarrassment, not just to the government, but to the Republic of Kenya and the entire East Africa,” Kajwang said.

Despite the mounting criticism, Kuria appears to be unfazed. He remains defiant and focused on his job, confident in his ability to weather the storm.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has called for the dismissal of Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, accusing him of embarrassing the government and undermining the Senate.

Senator Cheruiyot made the statement on Wednesday, November 11, in response to CS Kuria’s public criticism of the Senate’s handling of the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza.

The Majority Leader expressed disappointment in CS Kuria’s conduct, saying that his remarks were “becoming increasingly unbecoming of a Cabinet Secretary.”

He particularly took issue with a tweet by CS Kuria in which he called senators “cognitively impaired”.

Senator Cheruiyot said that CS Kuria’s behavior was not only disrespectful to the Senate but also reflected poorly on President William Ruto.

He called on the President to dismiss CS Kuria, saying that his continued presence in the government was an embarrassment to the administration.

Senator Cheruiyot’s comments come amid growing calls for CS Kuria’s resignation. Several other senators have also expressed concerns about his conduct, and there is a growing consensus within the Kenya Kwanza coalition that he should be removed from office.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has pledged to serve the Kenyan people regardless of his cabinet assignment under President William Ruto.

Kuria, who was appointed to lead the Public Service Ministry in a cabinet reshuffle on October 4, 2023, spoke about his new role and his commitment to public service during the launch of the Garissa County Aggregation and Industrial Park.

He said that he initially considered sending his Principal Secretary to represent him at the event, but decided to attend in person after a conversation with Garissa Governor Nathif Jama.

Kuria emphasized that the government never sleeps and that the Cabinet has a duty to assist the President in delivering his duties, regardless of their specific roles. He said that he would do his best to serve the people of Kenya in the Public Service docket, just as he did in his previous role as Trade CS.

“The government never sleeps and keeps on working, regardless of where we work. The Cabinet has a duty to assist the president in delivering his duties. Now, I will be in the Public Service docket, handling service delivery, and performance contracts. But even if I was given the Gender docket, I would still do it exceptionally because even the women want to be served, and all Kenyans need effective service delivery.”

Reflecting on his achievements as Trade CS, Kuria highlighted the launch of 15 industrial parks and efforts to boost local manufacturing through international agreements. He expressed pride in the progress made during his time in office and expressed optimism about the future.

“I leave this ministry with my head held high,”

In summary, Kuria has pledged to serve the Kenyan people regardless of his cabinet assignment. He is committed to delivering effective public service and is optimistic about the future of Kenya.

Kenya’s Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has apologized for controversial comments he made regarding the country’s fuel prices.

On September 15, Kuria sparked a nationwide debate when he suggested that fuel prices were likely to increase in the coming months due to global dynamics. However, he has now expressed remorse and retracted his earlier statement.

In his apology, Kuria acknowledged that his earlier remarks were incorrect, insensitive, and arrogant.

“On Friday 15th September I made some comments indicating that the price of fuel is likely to go up in the coming months owing to global dynamics. I have since been advised by people like Dr Boni Khalwale and his master that the statement was incorrect, insensitive and arrogant. I am made to now understand that the price will come down. I apologise profusely since to err is human,” he said.

Kuria’s apology has divided public opinion, with some Kenyans questioning its sincerity.

Others also wondered who the CS was referring to as “Khalwale’s master”.

The apology comes amidst growing tensions over the rising cost of fuel and concerns about government officials’ interactions with citizens.

Kuria’s initial comments were widely criticized, with many Kenyans accusing him of being out of touch with the realities of life for ordinary citizens. His apology has been welcomed by some, but others remain skeptical, given his track record of making controversial statements.

It is unclear who Kuria was referring to as “Khalwale’s master” in his apology. Some have speculated that he was referring to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, while others believe he was simply making a general point about the importance of listening to advice from others.

Whatever the case may be, Kuria’s apology is a reminder of the importance of government officials being mindful of their words and actions. The public expects them to be honest and transparent, and to avoid making insensitive or arrogant statements.

Moses Kuria mockingly apologizes to Kenyans for saying fuel prices would keep rising

On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, Investments, Industry, and Trade CS Moses Kuria sarcastically apologized to Kenyans for his earlier statements that the price of fuel would continue to increase until February of the following year.

Kuria claimed that he was advised to apologize by people like Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and his boss, who told him that his earlier statements were “incorrect, insensitive, and arrogant.”

However, Kuria’s comments appeared to be directed at Khalwale, who has been calling for Kuria’s firing in response to his statements.

Speaking in Kakamega, Khalwale also demanded the dismissal of Ruto’s economic adviser David Ndii and Energy CS Davis Chirchir for their controversial comments on the price of fuel.

Kuria received criticism on Saturday for advising Kenyans who were unhappy about high fuel costs to drill their own oil wells.

Kuria’s apology has been met with mixed reactions from Kenyans. Some Kenyans have praised him for apologizing, while others have criticized him for being sarcastic and for not taking responsibility for his statements.

Ukishinda umesema bei ya mafuta imeongezeka kutoka asubuhi mpaka jioni, si uchimbe kisima chako? (When you keep on complaining that the prices of fuel have gone up, why don’t you just drill your own oil well?)”

Kuria also linked issues related to climate change to growing gasoline prices.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua asked all government representatives to refrain from speaking arrogantly to Kenyans after his address.

Investment, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria made contradictory remarks about cooking oil prices on Wednesday night.

Responding to a presentation showing the prices of cooking oil on live TV, Kuria claimed that the prices listed were not factual and that the prices were actually lower than what was projected. He went on to claim that President William Ruto’s administration had lowered the price of cooking oil by 50 per cent.

However, when tasked to state what the current prices are, the CS claimed that the prices had been reduced to Ksh240 per litre.

A spot check at a local supermarket revealed that the prices of cooking oil per litre were selling at Ksh355, Ksh347, Ksh325 and Ksh307, which is higher than what the CS had claimed.

Kuria’s claims have been disputed by many, including Kenyans on social media, who have pointed out that the prices of cooking oil are still high.

Some have accused the CS of being out of touch with reality, while others have called on him to be more honest about the situation.

The controversy over cooking oil prices highlights the challenges that the Ruto administration is facing in addressing the high cost of living in Kenya.

Moses Kuria has had a turbulent time as a Cabinet Secretary. His controversial and combative style has landed him in hot water on several occasions, both domestically and internationally.

In June 2023, Kuria was involved in a spat with the media after a local media house exposed a corruption scandal in his Ministry. Kuria responded by insulting the media house and its journalists, and threatening to withhold government advertising from them. He also advised his colleagues in government not to cooperate with the media house.

In July 2023, Kuria was locked out of a meeting with top American trade officials. The American representatives reportedly insisted that he was an unwanted host because of his extremist remarks. Two other high-profile meetings that Kuria was set to attend were also cancelled.

Kuria has also been criticized for his consistent use of foul language on social media. He has been known to insult opposition politicians and to make careless remarks about international affairs. For example, he called for the bombing of Khartoum during the war in Sudan.

In August 2023, Kuria was locked out of a Performance Contract Signing meeting at State House. President William Ruto reportedly demanded that Kuria and his colleagues write him a letter explaining why they were late, and ordered them not to mention the traffic menace in Nairobi as a reason.

Kuria’s woes have led to a decline in his popularity. He is now seen as a liability by many, and his future in government is uncertain.

Conclusion

Moses Kuria’s time as a Cabinet Secretary has been marked by controversy and scandal. His combative style has alienated many people, and his use of foul language has been widely criticized. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to weather the storm and maintain his position in government.

The Minority Coalition in the Senate staged a walkout on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, following the arrival of Trade CS Moses Kuria. The senators, who are allied to the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance coalition party, left the House when Senate Speaker Amason Kingi allowed the CS to proceed with answering questions in regards to his docket.

The senators claimed that the House lacked a quorum and was in violation of Standing Order 41. This standing order states that a quorum is deemed to be present when two-thirds of the members of the House are present. The Minority Coalition argued that there were not enough members present to constitute a quorum.

As a result of the walkout, no business could be conducted in the House. The senators also objected to CS Kuria being questioned about his criticism of the media and the controversy surrounding the edible oil purchase deal.

The walkout comes at a time when the Senate is deadlocked over a number of issues, including the budget and the electoral bill. The Minority Coalition has accused the Speaker of favoring the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, which is the coalition of parties that CS Kuria belongs to.

The Speaker has denied these allegations, but the walkout has further strained relations between the two sides. It remains to be seen whether the Senate will be able to resume business in the near future.

Analysis

The walkout by the Minority Coalition is a significant development in the ongoing political crisis in Kenya. It is a sign of the deep divisions within the Senate and the country as a whole. It remains to be seen whether the Senate will be able to resume business in the near future, but the walkout has further strained relations between the two sides.

Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has insisted that he will not apologize for his recent slur on the media, saying that he knows the difference between a media house that is being used and one that is not.

Kuria, who is a former media owner, made the remarks on Wednesday after appearing before the Senate plenary to answer questions raised by senators.

“I am not apologizing. My friend, I have been a media owner before. I have been a writer in your newspapers and all that before. There’s nobody who is pro-media more than me but I know the difference between media and what Stanley Baldwin called the Prerogative of the Harlot, the exercise of power without responsibility,” Kuria said.

Kuria’s outburst followed an expose by NTV, a station under the Nation Media Group, where it alleged that Cabinet Secretaries were responsible for the drop in the price of edible oils. The move allegedly made the taxpayer lose about Sh5.6 billion.

Kuria has accused the Nation Media Group of propelling negative stories about the government, and he has threatened to sack any government official who advertises with the media house.

The media group has denied the allegations, and it has said that it is committed to providing accurate and unbiased reporting.

The Kenya Union of Journalists has also condemned Kuria’s remarks, saying that they are an attack on press freedom.

It remains to be seen whether Kuria will face any consequences for his remarks. However, his comments have sparked a debate about the role of the media in a democracy.

Investment, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria has said that any 250ml bottle of liquor being sold below Ksh250 should be labeled as illegal.

Kuria made the remarks on Monday, June 12, 2023, while addressing a crowd during a multi-agency meeting at Kirubia Stadium in Tharaka Nithi County.

He said that the move is aimed at counteracting the production rate of illegal alcohol in the country.

“Any liquor vendor selling alcohol at the price mentioned above should immediately be treated as a suspect,” Kuria said.

He added that the government will be working with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and other relevant agencies to ensure that illegal alcohol is taken off the market.

Kuria’s remarks come at a time when the country is grappling with a high rate of alcohol-related deaths.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol is a major risk factor for death and disability in Kenya.

In 2016, alcohol-related deaths accounted for 5.3% of all deaths in the country.

Kuria’s move is seen as a step in the right direction in the fight against illegal alcohol.

However, it remains to be seen how effective it will be in curbing the production and sale of illegal alcohol in the country.

Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria was loathed by the Luo community before Raila Odinga and Uhuru Kenyatta shook hands. No one would imagine Kuria strolling down the streets of Kisumu, but he did last Saturday.

The controversial lawmaker was in Kisumu over the past weekend for the homecoming ceremony for ICT PS Jerome Ochieng and also to raise funds for Kusa Catholic Church.

Kuria opted to ride boda boda to the city center when he touched down in Kisumu. The Gatundu South MP was treated to a warm reception by lakeside dwellers as he crisscrossed the city.

Mashemeji Derby

Moses Kuria also rubbed shoulders with Raila Odinga at Kasarani stadium on Sunday July 22nd during Gor Mahia and FC Leopards derby.