Maize farmers have said that they are shocked by KRAs move to demand tax on maize supplied to NCPB.
The farmers, who hail from Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu Counties, told Hot News that they received a message from KRA demanding “due tax”
Dear Taxpayer,
KRA has noticed that you supplied maize to NCPB, and you have not paid due tax.
This is to remind you to visit KRA office Kitale at Mega Centre (Former Nakumatt) On 3rd, 4th, or 5th August 2021 to make payment(s).
Failure to comply, we shall raise forced assessment and forward your file to enforcement.
Feel free to call back for clarification.
Michael Khasindu
KRA Officer Kitale.
#StaySafe.
#Corona_Is_Still_Here.
Some of the farmers who requested anonymity said they were shocked with the message since they are tax complaint and have filed all the dues owed to KRA.
“This is a threat. I won’t sell my maize to NCPB again. Its better to sell to the local market. We pay taxes but this government is simply out to overtax us. Its unfair,” said a farmer who requested anonymity.
The farmers said KRA should go after real tax evaders instead of “harassing them”.
However, 2 weeks after we sent our queries to KRA raising the farmers concerns, KRA hasn’t responded yet.
“We acknowledge receipt of your media query. We will revert with a response in due course” said KRAs David Gatiba, Public Relations and Communication.
They are not farmers alone who have complained of KRAs high handedness in collecting taxes, several other people have complained that the Agency has been sending them messages to remit Value Added Tax, yet they have never even registered any business in their names.
“Dear Taxpayer, our records indicate that you have VAT arrears of Kshs. 10,000. Please log on to your iTax portal to generate the requisite payment registration receipt (PRN) & make payment through a Partner Bank or Mpesa Pay bill No. 572572. Kenya Revenue Authority” read one of the messages to Kiambu resident who has never registered any business.