By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
Kampala
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has joined other political parties and concerned citizens in expressing their concern over the over-taxation of traders in Uganda.
The party president, Patrick Oboi Amuriat, addressed the media at Najjanankumbi, highlighting the frustration felt by many traders due to the burdensome tax regime.
Since the beginning of the month, traders have been closing their shops in protest against the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS), which they believe leads to double taxation.
Eng. Patrick Oboi Amuriat criticized the government for favoring foreign investors, such as Chinese and Indian businesses, with tax holidays and various forms of assistance while neglecting the local traders.
Amuriat pointed out that the escalating taxes in Uganda are a result of excessive expenditure by political leaders, lavish lifestyles of those in administration, and widespread corruption among individuals managing project funds.
The FDC calls upon the government and the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to engage all stakeholders in dialogue instead of resorting to coercive measures.
The party emphasizes that the tax revenue collected should be utilized for the benefit of local traders and the overall development of the country. As the traders’ protest enters its second week, there is uncertainty about when it will end and what the eventual resolution will entail.
The FDC urges for a fair and sustainable solution to address the concerns of traders and ensure a conducive business environment in Uganda.
