The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has declared its stance over the raid at Rahma Broadcasting Limited which is owned by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, over tax-compliance related concerns.
KRA in a statement on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, noted that its attention has been drawn to media reports on enforcement actions taken against the media station.
The authority confirmed that the raid was effected after it followed the right procedures including the issuance of demand notices to the company.
“KRA attention has been drawn to media reports on enforcement actions taken regarding the tax compliance of Rahma Broadcasting Limited. KRA confirms that all due diligence procedures were followed, including the issuance of demand notices to the company,” read part of the statement.
The Authority further added that following a comprehensive review, it was determined that Rahma Broadcasting Limited was non-compliant in filing and paying various tax obligations.
KRA revealed that engagements with the management of Rahma Broadcasting Limited have been ongoing since taxes became due and payable.
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KRA on raiding Abdulswamad’s Station
According to the taxman, commitments that were reached with the Shariff-owned company were not honored which justified the raid.
“Commitments were reached, however the taxpayer did not honor them. Today’s activity at Rahma Broadcasting Limited is therefore part of normal KRA’s Enforcement operation,” added KRA.
The Authority has maintained that it remains committed to facilitating taxpayers and ensuring compliance with tax laws.
This statement comes after the Kenya Revenue Authority officials raided Nassir’s radio station over allegations of tax evasion with the aim to auction equipment.
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The raid has sparked a flurry of reactions and raised questions from the Mombasa County boss.
Governor Nassir protested the incident stating that he had contacted officers from the Authority’s top management who were unaware of any instructions regarding the raid.
Muguka ban
He further claimed that the raid was a form of harassment due to his stance on the ban of muguka in Mombasa County.
“This is the first time in my life I have received up to five cases. All this is because of the muguka issue,” he said.
Governor Nassir added that the KRA officers were taking orders from individuals other than their superiors to frustrate his efforts.
He further maintained his stance saying that the raid of his Radio Station had strengthened his resolve to combat the consumption of the drug in the County.
“You can close our businesses. Now I am more convinced than ever. We will not be cowed,” Abdulswamad asserted.
Orange Democratic Party (ODM) leaders while responding to the raid agreed with Shariff, accusing President William Ruto of politicizing the war against the muguka menace in Mombasa County.
ODM said that they have noted that the government plans to silence Nassir who has on several occasions called upon them to match his efforts concerning other drugs that cross international borders to get into the country.
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