By Aggrey Buluba
In a rather eyebrow-raising turn of events, the Mukono Municipality Member of Parliament, Betty Nambooze Bakireke has lashed out at the government for its relentless taxation spree, which she claims is transforming Uganda into a “failed state.” Speaking on a local radio station in her usual candid style, the fiery legislator expressed her dismay over the government’s decision to collect taxes directly from school fees payments using the Integrated Financial Management System (IFRIS).
“At this rate, URA is going to be posting their staff to live in every school bursar’s office, right next to the coffee machine,” Nambooze joked, but with her tone laced with frustration. “Next thing you know; they’ll be sneaking into PTA meetings to collect attendance fees!”
According to Nambooze, the URA recently announced the creation of 5,000 new jobs, but she claims there’s a twist. Instead of being regular government jobs, these new recruits will allegedly be stationed in private businesses all across the country. Schools, supermarkets, hospitals, retail shops, and maybe even your favorite chapati stand, to keep a close eye on transactions. “Soon, they might just be popping in the children’s play areas!” she added, in a mix of humor and dismay.
This controversial move comes hot on the heels of the government’s introduction of the IFRIS, which has already faced strong opposition from traders. The system, which tracks all transactions in real time, is now being extended to schools, a move that has many scratching their heads and some, like Nambooze, fuming.
“What’s next?” Nambooze asked sarcastically. “Tax inspectors attending school sports days and giving out fines for cheering too loudly?” She warned that this initiative might scare parents away from sending their children to school, as the additional scrutiny could force school owners and administrators to raise fees to cover the increased costs.
Critics of the IFRIS say the government’s heavy-handed approach could backfire, especially in a sector as sensitive as education. Schools, already grappling with post-pandemic recovery, are now faced with the prospect of accommodating government auditors in their administration offices.
Nambooze’s fiery remarks have ignited debate across social media, with many Ugandans poking fun at the idea of “URA agents in every classroom.” Memes of cartoon-like inspectors peeking over the shoulders of terrified students have flooded the internet, turning what was initially a grim topic into comedic relief.
But beyond the jokes, the situation underscores a growing concern over Uganda’s mounting taxes.
“We might as well start charging a ‘breathing tax’ at this rate.” While Nambooze’s comments may have drawn laughter, they also highlight a pressing issue of how much taxation is too much, and is the government really listening to its people?
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: Uganda is in for a wild ride, and everyone, from students, parents, and even chapati vendors may need to brace themselves for what comes next.
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