Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa, has taken a firm stance alongside other leaders in Western Kenya against the newly introduced sugar tax payment system.
The directive mandates farmers to present e-TIMS invoices for every cane delivered to factories before receiving payment, a move vehemently opposed by governor Barasa and his allies.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has instructed all sugarcane farmers to register on its tax payment platform, e-TIMS, effective April 1, 2024. Failure to comply would result in farmers being unable to sell their crops.
Governor Barasa who was addressing Muslim faithful during Eid celebrations in Lugari Sub-county rejected its introduction, demanding its suspension.
The governor further urged the cane pricing committee to review their decision, which includes reducing the price of cane per tonne.
He emphasized the necessity of increasing the buying price to above ksh 6,000 per tonne to ensure fair compensation for farmers.
Speaking separately Lurambi MP Bishop Titus Khamala said that the directive would impact sugarcane farmers, the majority of whom lack technological proficiency and do not own smartphones.
By Our Reporter
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