According to Antony Mucheke, kirinyaga bar Branch chairman, the increase on excise duty that is slated to be implemented by 1st October this year will make it difficult for consumers to afford legitimate alcoholic drinks that will lead them to turn to illicit brews.
Mucheke adds that, through the organization, they have already sent their opposing memorandum to KRA with fear that the authority will disregard their plight as it has been disregarding their presentations every time there were plans to increase taxes on alcoholic drinks. He further urged the government to consider the health of millions of the young generation who have been the consumers of the cheap liquor.
Grace Wanjohi, a bar owner in Kirinyaga states that the industry is still staggering from the effects of restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic and the increase in taxes will make them to cripple .
The association therefore wants the government to rethink on the decision and to ensure all stakeholders are involved in such matters.
By Emmaculate Wamalwa
