Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa has taken a firm stance against the newly-introduced tax and payment charges in the sugar sector.

The directive mandates farmers to present e-TIMS invoices for every cane delivered to factories before receiving payment, a move vehemently opposed by Governor Barasa and his allies.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) wants all sugarcane farmers to register on its tax payment platform, e-TIMS, effective April 1, 2024, failure to comply would result in farmers being unable to sell their crops.

Addressing Muslim faithfuls in Lugari Sub-County, Governor Barasa expressed strong opposition to the new tax law, demanding its suspension.

He argued that the directive would impact sugarcane farmers, the majority of whom lack technological proficiency and do not own smartphones.