Some legislators from the opposition have accompanied activist John Wamagata to court where he filed an application seeking to be enjoined in a case filed by Okiya Omtatah challenging the 16% VAT on petroleum products.
The MPs Babu Owino, Antony Oluoch and Senator Cleophas Malala, among others, are said to represent 3000 residents of Vihiga, Kakamega, Embakasi East, Uriri, Saboti and Alego Usonga constituencies.
Through lawyer Anthony Oluoch, the ‘Ondoa Panya Operation’ national coordinator Wamagata argued that the matter is of great public interest.
On Tuesday 4th, High Court Judge Chacha Mwita declined to issue the orders sought by Omtatah seeking to suspend the fuel tax implemented on 1st September.
Omtatah argues that the decision by the government violates the Constitution because…….it has an effect of limiting rights to property and advancement of socio-economic rights.
He accused the CS of allowing the implementation of the new levy in total defiance to Parliament which had suspended the same till 1st September 2020.
He wants the High Court to issue an order permanently suspending the Act, arguing that it is counterproductive, with disastrous effects on other aspects of the economy.
The respondents in the matter are; The Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich, Kenya Revenue Authority, Energy Regulatory Commission and the Attorney General.
The matter will be mentioned on 10th September for directions.
Kenyans have already started feeling the pinch through increased transport fares and prices of other basic commodities.
The price of a litre of petrol and diesel currently retails at Sh131 and Sh118.30, respectively with paraffin going for Sh100.60 a litre.
