This archive report was first published on 26 September 2019.
On April, Interior CS Fred Matiang'i vowed to introduce tough measures to regulate the betting sector, which he accused of leading youth astray.
As part of the crackdown, Matiang'i gave all firms three months up to July 1 to seek fresh renewal of licenses upon proving tax compliance.
Following the deadline, the State shutdown the pay bills of the betting firms in radical measures to ensure they toe the line to the new regulations.
Despite the companies moving to court and public outcry, only licenses of about 10 companies were renewed which were deemed to be tax compliant by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
Among the cleared firms are Odibets, Mozzartbet, Eazi Bet, Ken Bookmakers, Eastleighbet, Lucky 2u, Palms Bet, Bet boss, Kick off, and Easi bet.
However, the State has declined to renew the licenses of betting giants Sportpesa and Betin, whose fate still remains unknown.
The CS has insisted that renewals are subject to proof of tax compliance, as seen in the case of Odibets, which has implemented the 20% withholding tax on their winnings.
