Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria on Tuesday caused a stir online following his interview on Citizen TV's News Night show.
Kuria, former Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and Public Policy Analyst Dr Alex Awiti were hosted by Hussein Mohammed to discuss the 16 per cent VAT on petroleum products.
Speaking during the interview, Kuria stated that he fully supports the 16 per cent on fuel, arguing that paying taxes is sacred.
He further argued that Kenyans should support the government's move to implement the 16 per cent VAT, adding that it will not affect the prices of basic commodities.
“There is no VAT on maize flour and wheat flour. The basic commodities are zero-rated. Even if the VAT is implemented on fuel, the basic consumption products are zero-rated. What would we say if there was VAT on unga?” he asked.
“Paying taxes is sacred. We are shooting ourselves in the foot if we deny government the right to levy taxes,” he added.
Khawale, however, did not agree with Kuria's sentiments noting that the price of commodities will go up due to transportation costs.
“To say that the prices of basic commodities are unaffected by 16% VAT is to assume they are made in the compounds of the consumers. There must always be a transportation cost,” said Khalwale.
Khalwale further hit out at the MP, insinuating that Kuria came for the interview while drunk.
“I wish we had put an alcohol blow at the door before we came in,” said Khalwale.
The statement seemed to have irked Kuria, who in a quick rejoinder accused Khalwale of procuring abortions.
“Let me tell you something before you were conducting abortions, I was still in politics,” said Kuria.
A section of Kenyans has however expressed disappointment with Kuria, with some agreeing with Khalwale's sentiments that the vocal MP appeared drunk during the interview.
Here are some of their reactions.
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