Finance Committee to Grill KRA Over System Failures as Businesses Resist Shorter Tax Filing Deadline

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is facing pressure over persistent system failures as stakeholders rejected a proposal in the Finance Bill 2026 seeking to reduce the annual tax filing deadline by two months.

Appearing before the National Assembly Finance Committee on Monday, business groups led by Kenya Private Sector Alliance warned that KRA’s technical inefficiencies would make compliance difficult for taxpayers.

The proposal seeks to move the tax return filing deadline from June 30 to April 30 every year.

Stakeholders argued that many businesses rely on audited financial statements, which take time to prepare, review, and approve. They warned that shorter timelines could force companies to file inaccurate or estimated returns, increasing disputes and amendments.

Finance Committee Chairperson Kuria Kimani acknowledged the concerns and promised to push KRA to improve its systems and support taxpayers better.