Kenyan businessman and political activist Morara Kebaso has finally addressed questions about his wealth and financial background.
In a recent interview with Dr. King’ori, Morara disclosed that he is worth over KSh 100 million.
Despite his reluctance to discuss the details, he stated that he does not actively chase deals anymore—he waits for opportunities to come to him.
Multiple Streams of Income
Morara explained that he has built his wealth through various businesses. He is involved in carpentry, owns a fashion line called Luku Fashion, and runs a real estate business that converts shipping containers into workspaces.
He stressed that it is possible to make good money in Kenya without engaging in corruption, drawing comparisons with struggling economies like Zimbabwe and war-torn regions such as Syria and Gaza.
He also highlighted the financial benefits of marriage, stating that a man can save up to three times more when working together with his wife.
Fundraising and Public Criticism
Morara’s public fundraising efforts have sparked mixed reactions, with some Kenyans questioning why he still asks for financial support despite his significant wealth.
Responding to critics, he defended his fundraising initiatives, stating that public affairs should be funded by the public.
He acknowledged the backlash on social media, where some users accused him of seeking donations for personal expenses.
However, he maintained that his financial status does not prevent him from involving the public in causes that matter.
Tax Investigation and Allegations
In January 2025, some hints at just how well to do Morara was when it was alleged that Kenya Revenue Authority was investigating him for tax evasion.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) claimed that his companies owed KSh 27 million in unpaid taxes. At the time, the activist argued that tax matters should remain confidential and accused government agencies of targeting him due to his outspoken stance on corruption.
“This is a clear attempt to silence me and force me to work with corrupt leaders,” he stated, insisting that he has always complied with tax regulations.
According to KRA, Morara’s businesses—including Morara Home Furniture, Luku Fashion, Morara Properties Limited, and Backtent Security Limited—had either not declared income or failed to file tax returns.
An analysis of their bank records allegedly showed transactions totaling KSh 186.3 million over the past three years, primarily from M-Pesa payments.
KRA alleged that Morara Home Furniture accounts for 80% of this revenue and should have been registered for Value Added Tax (VAT). They estimated he owed KSh 25.7 million in VAT and KSh 1.4 million in income tax.
Morara denied ownership of Igrow Digital Enterprise, another company under investigation, clarifying that it was started by university classmates in 2014 for a dog-breeding business that never took off.
KRA then summoned Morara to provide financial records, including bank statements and invoices, and to appear at their Nairobi offices for questioning.
by GEOFFREY MBUTHIA
