Traders in Kampala are protesting against a proposed tax collection system by shutting down their businesses, demanding a meeting with President Museveni to address their grievances.
The traders, under the Kampala Capital City Traders Association (KACITA), announced their determination to close businesses by July 31 if the president does not address them through any valid media.
Key Grievances: Taxes and EFRIS
The traders are opposed to high taxes on imports and the implementation of the Uganda Revenue Authority’s Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS).
KACITA spokesperson Issa Ssekitto emphasized the need for answers on EFRIS, taxation, and the impact of foreign traders on local businesses.
Meeting Cancellations and Criticism
This development follows the cancellation of a planned July 31 meeting with the president due to ongoing renovations at Kololo Grounds in Kampala.
Ssekitto criticized the manner of the cancellation, calling it unprofessional and disrespectful, as it was communicated through a WhatsApp voice note by the Kampala minister, Minsa Kabanda.
Previous Meeting Missed
A previous meeting scheduled for June 20 was also missed by the president. Traders have expressed frustration, noting that they are losing money and capital due to the delays.
Ssekitto suggested that the meeting could take place at any location chosen by the president, not necessarily Kololo.
Coinciding Protests and Official Responses
The traders’ strike coincides with the planned return of the anti-corruption protests, potentially on July 31.
Minister Kabanda defended her use of a voice note to inform traders of the postponement, citing the inability to write an official letter over the weekend.
She assured that the president would meet the traders towards the end of August.
Impact on Tax Collections
The April 2024 traders’ strike significantly impacted Uganda’s tax collections, resulting in a Shs165.6 billion shortfall in June.
The country collected Shs3.030 trillion against a target of Shs3.381 trillion.
Ssekitto urged traders to remain peaceful during the protest, emphasizing that any unrest would not be their responsibility.
