Catholic Bishop calls for more sensitisation on Finance Bill

Kerugoya, Thursday, June 08, 2023

by David Wandeto

The Bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Murang’a James Maria Wainana has requested for more public education on the Proposed Finance Bill 2023 before being debated and passed by the legislature.

Speaking during the ground breaking and laying foundation of a new Out-patient Complex Wing at Mary Immaculate Hospital in Kerugoya, he asked the government to take the time to educate Kenyans on the benefits of the financial bill and how Kenyans will gain from it.

“The government should take time to teach and to show them the benefit of the finance bill both socially and individually and how a person will benefit as a part of the society. Whenever there is something good there is always a sacrifice to be made. The sacrifice should be voluntary and with a good heart,” Wainaina said.

There has been public debate on the contents of the bill especially on taxation and levies introduced by the government claiming it will hurt the low income earners.

The Bishop further urged Kenyans to study the bill carefully and comprehend it in the hopes of realising the promises made by the current government to improve Kenya.

“People should also carefully read the finance bill and understand its contents so that they can understand what the government has promised them,” he added.

The bill is the first proposal for the financial under the leadership of the President William Ruto and Kenya and it main aim is to increase tax base resulting in reduced dependence on external borrowing.  

The Bishop has backed the government's efforts to control churches and has vehemently denounced some pastors' deceitful behavior with Kenyans. The taskforce that was formed by the president to review legal and regulatory frameworks governing religious organizations in Kenya has already begun collecting views from the public.

The new outpatient wing will expand the infrastructure of the catholic sponsored facility giving room for ICU and HDU unit. The management of the facility the church seeks to provide Kenyans with better health care services

“The hospital wants to help and provide better services to the residents of Kirinyaga and the surrounding area,” Wainaina said.

Courtesy ; K. N. A