Kenya’s Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo has defended the government’s latest budget plans, insisting the measures are driven by national interest and the need to restore fiscal stability.
Speaking in Kitui County during a traditional wedding ceremony on Saturday, Kiptoo said the proposed tax changes are part of a broader strategy to reduce Kenya’s reliance on borrowing and steady its strained public finances.
“Every tax measure being introduced is the result of very patriotic and well-considered opinions,” he said. “These are necessary steps if we are to stabilise our economy and reduce dependence on debt.”
His remarks come as debate intensifies over the cost of living and the direction of government fiscal policy. The Treasury has faced growing scrutiny from sections of the public and political leaders who argue that new tax measures could further pressure households already facing high living costs.
Kiptoo, however, painted a more cautionary picture of the country’s finances, warning that both domestic and external debt levels have reached what he described as an unsustainable point.
“Our current debt situation is becoming increasingly unsustainable,” he said. “Painful as some of these measures may be, they are necessary if we are to normalise the situation and secure the country’s economic future.”
He urged Kenyans to support ongoing reforms, framing them as a collective effort that may require short-term sacrifice in exchange for long-term stability. Despite the difficult outlook, he maintained that the economy remains resilient.
“Even with the difficulties we are facing, our economy is weathering the storm and remains stable,” he said, expressing cautious optimism about Kenya’s economic trajectory.
The comments add to an ongoing national conversation about balancing revenue generation with public welfare, as policymakers attempt to narrow fiscal deficits without deepening economic strain on citizens.
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