Atwoli Proposes Changes in Tax Deductions for Salaried Kenyans

The Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), Francis Atwoli, has urged the government to revise tax laws affecting salaried Kenyans, citing the need to align statutory deductions with the current economic environment.

Speaking at the Labour Day celebrations held at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, Atwoli called on President William Ruto to amend existing tax regulations so that statutory deductions are calculated based on basic salary rather than gross pay.

“These taxes should not be on the gross salary; it should be on the basic, so that the gross pay is not interfered with. I know the President will look into that,” Atwoli stated, addressing thousands of workers gathered for the annual celebration.

Atwoli stressed that the heavy taxation burden is hindering economic growth and financial stability for hardworking Kenyans. “People toil very hard, but they do not get anything in the aftermath,” he lamented.

In addition to tax reforms, Atwoli voiced concern over the government’s reliance on outsourced labour, arguing that it undermines national revenue goals. He proposed that all outsourced workers should be subjected to the same statutory deductions as locally employed staff to help boost revenue collection.

During his address, Atwoli also touched on global economic policies, referencing former U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for domestic self-reliance. “Trump’s policies…call for all of us to rethink how we can be free and independent economically,” he remarked.

Atwoli further urged Kenyans to support the current administration and to practice patriotism. He cautioned against reckless criticism of the government, stating that it only fuels instability.

Lastly, the COTU boss advocated for tighter regulation of social media, warning that unchecked misuse could lead the country into chaos.

Atwoli’s proposals have sparked public debate, with workers and economic analysts weighing in on the potential impact of shifting statutory deductions from gross to basic pay.

In other news:Fred Matiang’i to Make First Public Appearance in Gusii Region on May 2

Atwoli Proposes Changes in Tax Deductions for Salaried Kenyans