KRA Commissioner General John Njiraini has categorically denied allegations that he holds shares in Space & Style Limited, a company embroiled in a tax dispute with the Kenya Revenue Authority. The controversy stems from Njama Wambugu's claim that Njiraini is a co-owner through an offshore entity, a charge the commissioner refuted as "false and fabricated."
Wambugu, who has filed a case at the Constitutional Court, alleges that Njiraini influenced tax assessments against his businesses. Njiraini, however, stated he had repeatedly refused requests to intervene in the matter, citing adherence to legal procedures. He revealed that emissaries of Wambugu had warned him of reputational damage if he did not assist in evading a Ksh250 million tax demand.
The dispute dates back to November 2018, when KRA issued a formal tax assessment to Space & Style. Wambugu objected in December 2018, but the authority confirmed the assessment in February 2019, following proper timelines under the Tax Procedures Act. The company has since appealed to the Tax Appeals Tribunal, while Wambugu's constitutional case claims Njiraini's alleged shareholding through Hong Kong-based Decamis Limited.
In a letter to the KRA board, Njiraini emphasized his lack of involvement in the dispute, stating, "I have neither originated nor influenced the work done by the investigations department." He also denied prior allegations from Wambugu, including claims of political favoritism, calling them "muddy[ing] my reputation."
Wambugu has separately accused KRA of using tax demands as intimidation. Njiraini said the authority would challenge the constitutional case, arguing tax matters should be heard at the Tax Appeals Tribunal before progressing to higher courts.
