This archive report was first published on 26 August 2019.
Published on August 26, 2019, President Kenyatta expressed his support for a total ban on gambling in Kenya, citing the need for the government to get its share of taxes from the sector to fund beneficial activities.
Speaking at the 60th-anniversary celebrations of CITAM Church in Karen, Nairobi, Kenyatta emphasized that he has no powers to ban the gambling sector but urged Members of Parliament to enact a law that prohibits or spells out tough rules and regulations for gambling companies.
“So long as they are operating within Kenya, and are guided by the laws of the land, they should give Caesar what belongs to Caesar. You [MPs] should help me do it, I cannot rein in on them alone,” said Kenyatta, who was addressing MPs accompanying him to the function.
His administration has been campaigning to streamline the gambling industry, which has been accused of tax evasion and other vices. The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) recently suspended 27 betting companies over allegations of failing to remit taxes amounting to Sh60 billion.
Notably, SportPesa, Betin, and Betway, who enjoy a significant share of the Kenyan bookmaking market, were among the suspended companies. SportPesa has also suspended all its sponsorships of Kenyan sports teams and activities, citing a “hostile business environment”.
