Rights groups threaten govt on imported vehicles’ tax
Threatening: Trapence
Human rights defenders have threatened to take unspecified action should the government fail to engage different stakeholders within seven days on the introduction of fixed duty on imported vehicles.
They insist that though the country cannot develop without the citizens paying taxes, it should not be punitive or stifle the growth of businesses.
National chairperson of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition – HRDC Gift Trapence believes; “imposing punitive taxes is as good as restricting the rights of citizens in economic activities and inhibiting the growth of businesses.”
According to Trapence, Malawians are currently affected by the economic hardships therefore there is no need to introduce punitive taxes.
“We are therefore emphasising on the need for tax justice, fair taxation and transparency in the administration of taxes.” The human rights campaigner added.
Revenue authorities are describing the recently gazetted specific tax on motor vehicles as beneficial to importers as they will be able to make informed decisions on the likely amount of duty and excise for their cars.
While stressing that the new excise is a product of pre-budget consultations, MRA deputy commissioner responsible for facilitation Chimwemwe Kawalewale has stressed that; “the taxes will only apply to passenger rather than cargo vehicles. It should be appreciated that the excise will deter importation of out-dated cars hence giving Malawians a choice.”
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