Opposition Leaders Dismiss Ruto’s PAYE Tax Relief Pledge as 2027 Campaign Strategy
Opposition leaders have criticised President William Ruto’s proposed tax relief for low-income earners, dismissing the pledge as a political move aimed at influencing voters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Opposition leaders have criticised President William Ruto’s proposed tax relief for low-income earners, dismissing the pledge as a political move aimed at influencing voters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
People’s Party of Kenya (PPK) leader Ndindi Nyoro, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua and Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i made the remarks during a tour of Njoro in Nakuru County, where they questioned the government’s performance since taking office in 2022.
President Ruto has proposed exempting Kenyans earning Ksh32,333 or less per month from Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax. The proposal is among several measures his administration says are intended to ease the cost of living.
However, the opposition leaders argued that the pledge should be assessed against the government’s previous promises and its delivery record.
Nyoro Questions Government’s Track Record
Nyoro accused the government of making promises that have yet to be fulfilled, suggesting that the latest tax proposal was part of its preparations for the next general election.
He urged Kenyans to look beyond political declarations and evaluate the administration based on its performance.
Karua Raises Concerns Over Cost of Living
Karua highlighted the economic difficulties facing households, saying the opposition was focused on the struggles of Kenyans who continue to face challenges meeting their daily needs.
She criticised the government’s economic management and called for greater attention to the welfare of ordinary citizens.
Kitutu Chache MP Antony Kibagendi also criticised the administration, accusing it of failing in key sectors, including education, the economy and healthcare.
Opposition Pushes for Unity Ahead of 2027
Beyond the tax debate, the leaders used the Njoro visit to renew calls for opposition parties to work together ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Matiang’i urged opposition leaders to continue engaging and build a united front capable of challenging President Ruto at the ballot.
Karua said the opposition remained open to working with other leaders, adding that potential partners would be assessed based on their conduct and statements.
The exchange comes as political leaders intensify their positioning ahead of the 2027 polls, with taxation, the cost of living and the unity of the opposition emerging as key issues in the political debate.
