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Patrick Osoi, a former military officer and presidential hopeful, has launched a strong critique against President William Ruto, accusing him of imposing excessive taxes on Kenyans.
As the 2027 elections approach, Osoi is emerging as a vocal opponent of Ruto's economic policies, particularly those involving tax hikes and government spending.
Osoi's main contention revolves around Ruto's proposed Financial Bill 2024, which includes a significant increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential goods such as bread and milk.
The bill seeks to raise the VAT from 14% to 22% by the end of Ruto’s tenure. Osoi argues that this move will disproportionately affect low-income Kenyans, making it harder for them to afford basic necessities.
Speaking at a recent event, Osoi said, "There's nothing positive about the Finance Bill 2024 since it burdens the taxpayer with heavy taxes. Imposing a 16% VAT on essential goods like bread and milk, commonly used by low-income individuals, will inevitably lead to a minimum KSh 10 increase in their prices. That is frustrating for a Kenyan who religiously pays the taxes."
Osoi, who has a background in the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and special operations, is positioning himself as a candidate who understands the struggles of ordinary Kenyans. He believes that the government should focus on reducing wasteful spending rather than increasing taxes.
One of the key points of Osoi’s criticism is Ruto’s recent trip to the United States, which reportedly cost nearly KSh 200 million for the charter of a private Royal Jet. Osoi argues that this expense was unnecessary and extravagant, especially given the president's calls for fiscal responsibility.
"In as much as we hold the president's security to be of priority, our spending as a country should not add more painful taxes to the common mwananchi. His just-concluded trip to the US was extravagant. Hiring a private jet for KSh 200 million was above our means- especially since he insists on us living within our means," Osoi stated.
Osoi suggests that Ruto could have opted for a more cost-effective alternative by using Kenya Airways, the national carrier. He argues that this would have not only saved money but also supported a struggling national institution. This sentiment is shared by lawyer Miguna Miguna, who also criticized Ruto for choosing a foreign company over Kenya Airways.
"The president’s actions were unjustifiable as no president in the world could do what he did even if the aircraft was donated," Miguna said, demanding an apology from Ruto to Kenyans for prioritizing foreign services over local ones.
Osoi further criticized the government for its failure to adequately allocate resources, despite heavy taxation. He pointed to the delayed and insufficient payments to public workers, which have led to widespread strikes and economic disruption. This, he argues, is a sign of poor fiscal management and a lack of accountability.
As Osoi continues his campaign, he promises to bring a fresh perspective to Kenyan politics. He emphasizes the need for responsible governance and economic policies that prioritize the well-being of all Kenyans. His military background, he believes, has equipped him with the discipline and leadership skills necessary to address the country’s challenges.
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