Traders under the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) today fought tooth and nail to ensure that journalists cover their meeting with Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
The meeting, at Lugogo showgrounds, was called to hear traders grievances with URA. It turned chaotic after the commissioner general of the tax body, John Musinguzi, proposed that the interaction be closed to journalists.
But the traders stood up in arms and said their concerns were public and there was nothing to hide.
In the end, journalists were allowed to cover the meeting thanks to the helping hand of traders.
In the meeting, the traders said they were tired of paying taxes they did not understand.
For instance some said the EFRIS system of receipting had confused so many business people. They wanted clarification.
Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS) entails the use of electronic devices, e-Invoicing, or direct communication with business transaction systems to manage the issuance of e-receipts and e-invoices in accordance with the Tax Procedures Code Act 2014.
URA has been strict on the enforcement of the system, leaving many traders worried. They also sought more clarification on digital stamps and formulation of rental income.
Musinguzi assured the traders that their concerns will be addressed.