Mass Protests Erupt in Nairobi CBD as Traders Take on KRA
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Traders have taken to the streets in Nairobi’s Central Business District to protest the Kenya Revenue Authority’s revised customs benchmark, with demonstrators marching through the city while blowing whistles demanding that the new rates be withdrawn.
The traders have vowed not to relent until KRA addresses their concerns, with demonstrations reported in parts of the CBD on Friday. Traders in Kamukunji, Gikomba and Nyamakima had earlier called for a nationwide business shutdown over the new benchmark.
KRA raised the minimum benchmark for a 40-foot consolidated container from KSh2.5 million to KSh3.2 million.
Traders say the increase will push up the cost of importing goods and eat into their profits.
KRA has, however, said the KSh3.2 million figure is a reference used for risk management and is not a fixed tax charged on every container.
Traders march through Nairobi CBD on Friday as they protest KRA’s new KSh3.2 million cargo benchmark. PHOTO/ SCREENGRAB.
