Raila begs government to write off Keroche tax woes as Tabitha & family buries daughter!

Former Prime Minister Hon Raila Odinga and Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui have asked the government to intervene in the tax row facing Keroche Breweries.

Hon. Odinga defended the industry saying local investors should not be harassed but should instead be given the same support that foreign multinationals enjoy in Kenya.

Mr. Odinga said while local companies must pay taxes, there should be flexibility and consideration to enable them survive than close shop.

According to Governor Kinyanjui, Keroche Breweries is a symbol of fortitude in the area of industrialization in Nakuru County and Kenya.

He noted that it is a key indigenous factory that employs over 2,500 people as well as a major employer and wealth creator for the nation.

In 2015, the company CEO received the African Award for Entrepreneurship.

Governor Kinyanjui added that while the company receives recognition and awards from across the globe, locally they can only be crowned as the ‘most tormented company’ spending more time in court battles than in actual production.

“Our local industries will not be able to compete with international industries if we continue treating our local investors like criminals,” he said.

The Governor asked the National Government to intervene and protect local investors.

“As a country we must do more to protect our local industries.”

He added that manufacturing is part of the Big 4 agenda, noting that the National Government must focus on cushioning and building local industries to actualize this agenda.

“We will continue to advocate for fair treatment of Keroche Breweries that has created employment for hundreds of Nakuru residents,” he said.

The two leaders were speaking in Naivasha when they condoled with the family of Tecra Muigai, daughter of Keroche Breweries Chairman Joseph Karanja and CEO Tabitha Karanja.