The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) says the raid at a Coast-based Islamic radio station, Radio Rahma was in order and none should politicise the move.
In a recent statement, KRA noted that Rahma Broadcasting Limited has failed to honour it’s tax obligations despite several deliberations, arrangements and agreements on how the company could settle it’s accrued taxes.
In a statement headlined ‘Tax Compliance Action Against Rahma Broadcasting Limited ‘ the Tax regulatory body noted that the move is not under any ulterior motives but legally executed, and the process is ongoing.
“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. Following a comprehensive review, it was determined that Rahma Broadcasting Limited was non-compliant in filing and paying various tax obligations,” read part of the statement.
The tax body further states that several engagements with the management of Rahma Broadcasting Limited have been ongoing since taxes became due and payable adding that commitments were reached, however the taxpayer (Rahma Broadcasting Limited) did not honour them.
“Today’s activity at Rahma Broadcasting Limited is therefore part of normal KRA’s Enforcement operation. The Authority remains committed to facilitating taxpayers and ensuring compliance with tax laws. KRA appreciates the cooperation of all taxpayers in fulfilling their tax obligations,” further reiterated the KRA Southern region Coordinator.
Immediately after the raid that almost brought the station to a total shut down, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir, who is linked to the ownership of the station, together with other politicians including Likoni MP Mishi Mboko and Mombasa County Assembly Speaker Aharub Khatri camped outside the Mkomani based station in Mombasa, terming the KRA actions as mere intimidations following Nassir firm stand on Muguka trade, distribution and consumption in Mombasa.
“I will not bow to these intimidations and threats. We clearly know that this has nothing to do with the alleged accrued taxes but our recent move to ban Muguka in Mombasa county,” noted Governor Nassir.
The Mombasa County Chief said he will not bow down to such political gimmicks but soldier on in protecting the locals and especially the youth from the wrath of drugs including Muguka.
Radio Rahma, the once glowing Coast-based Islamic Radio station has faced tribulations which last year saw it’s management firing almost the entire staff at the station.
The entire News Department was sent home with all the experienced editors, reporters and some of the presenters sent parking.
The 14 journalists fired, later met up with their lawyers, since their dismissal was done in total circumvent of the labour laws. The 14 said they worked at the station without salaries and were later dismissed without any pay.
The tussle between Radio Rahma management and its former staff is yet to be settled and their dues paid.
