This archive report was first published on 4 September 2021.
On September 3, 2021, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) issued a statement, refuting reports that it had summoned Deputy President William Ruto to discuss his tax structure.
The fake report, which was shared on social media, claimed that KRA officials would visit the DP to discuss the composition of his income tax structure and that the authority had only received mandatory income tax in his capacity as Deputy President.
"Kindly be advised that this is fake," KRA wrote on its Facebook page, dismissing the report.
DP Ruto had publicly listed his sources of income on September 2, 2021, including his Koitalel poultry farm, which generates Ksh1.5 million a day from 200,000 layer chickens.
He also listed other properties, including shares of a telecommunications company and an airline.
"They forgot to disclose that my poultry business, which they listed in acreage, has 200,000 layer chicken and this man sells 150,000 eggs a day, making Sh1.5 million daily," the DP stated.
As Kenyans continue to probe whether the DP is remitting his taxes, the KRA statement serves as a reminder to be vigilant on social media and avoid spreading fake news.
Digital strategists warn that such tactics are used in political circles to malign individuals' names and gain an advantage.
The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, 2018, imposes heavy penalties on individuals spreading fake news, including a maximum jail term of ten years or a Ksh5 million fine, or both.
