Nominated Senator Crystal Asige has questioned proposed changes to tax exemption regulations, warning that persons with disabilities could face additional challenges accessing financial relief.
The senator believes some of the proposed requirements could weaken protections already secured by persons with disabilities while introducing unnecessary financial obligations.
In a statement published on her official X account on Thursday, November 12, she highlighted several areas requiring urgent attention.
Among the issues she questioned were disability classification procedures, assessment charges and conditions governing tax exemptions for parents and guardians.
Asige argued that introducing complicated assessment requirements could make it harder for eligible individuals to benefit from tax relief.
She also raised concerns about assessment fees, questioning why persons with disabilities should potentially incur additional expenses when seeking exemptions.
The senator's concerns extend to parents and guardians who provide financial and personal support to dependants living with disabilities.
She warned that changes affecting their eligibility for tax relief could place additional pressure on households already dealing with substantial responsibilities.
Her intervention comes amid wider discussions about disability inclusion, equal treatment and the protection of rights through government policies.
Asige particularly questioned whether the proposed framework adequately considers the experiences of people who will directly experience its consequences.
Expressing her dissatisfaction, she insisted that persons with disabilities must have a meaningful role in decisions affecting their welfare.
"Nothing about us, without us, yet here we go again," she stated.
She further described the proposed regulations as a direct attack on achievements made through years of advocacy for persons with disabilities.
Her remarks underline concerns that administrative procedures intended to regulate exemptions could eventually become obstacles for legitimate beneficiaries.
For families supporting persons with disabilities, tax relief can provide important financial assistance amid expenses associated with specialised care, education and daily living.
The senator's criticism places pressure on KRA to address concerns surrounding the proposed framework before implementation.
It also raises questions about public participation and whether organisations representing persons with disabilities have been adequately involved in developing the regulations.
Asige's position is that policies affecting persons with disabilities should strengthen existing protections rather than introduce requirements that make accessing benefits more difficult.
The controversy now places the proposed tax regulations under scrutiny, with disability rights and the financial welfare of affected families at the centre of the debate.
SOURCE
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