The Nairobi Court has suspended the KRA’s new organizational structure after a petition from the Trusted Society of Human Rights Alliance. The court’s ruling focuses on concerns about public participation and potential conflicts of interest. The restructuring may increase the organization’s wage burden and will involve additional stakeholders in the legal proceedings.
A Nairobi Court has halted the implementation of a revised organizational structure at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) following a petition by the Trusted Society of Human Rights Alliance. Justice Bahati Mwamuye of the Milimani High Court’s Constitutional and Human Rights division issued a conservatory order preventing the KRA from proceeding with the first and second phases of the restructuring, which was initially communicated on February 21, 2025.
The petitioners argue that the new organizational structure violates constitutional principles regarding public participation and the lawful use of public funds. They cite concerns that the KRA’s restructuring will expand its grading system from ten to fourteen tiers, potentially increasing the financial burden on the organization due to higher wage expenses.
Furthermore, the human rights group contends that the incorporation of the Department of Supply Chain Management, Procurement, and Internal Audit into the Office of the Commissioner General creates a conflict of interest. This restructuring, they assert, contravenes principles outlined in both the Public Procurement and Disposal Act and the Public Finance Management Act.
The Court has also involved additional stakeholders, including the National Treasury, the Public Service Commission, and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, in this case. The Petitioner’s application will be heard through highlighted written submissions on March 31, 2025, at 10:30 AM, and the ruling is scheduled for virtual delivery on April 28, 2025, at 10:30 AM.
The Nairobi Court’s decision to suspend the KRA’s restructuring plan underscores the importance of adhering to constitutional principles regarding public participation and financial management. The KRA faces scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest and the fiscal implications of the proposed organizational changes. Stakeholder involvement is critical as the case progresses toward a formal ruling in April 2025.
Original Source: allafrica.com
