Museveni Accepted To Meet Striking Traders Over EFRIS Protests

After days of continued protests against Uganda Revenue Authority’s Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS), President Museveni is reportedly set to meet leaders of striking traders on Friday to explore ways of resolving their grievances.

The leaders of the Kampala City Traders’ Association Uganda (KACITA Uganda) and the Federation of Uganda Traders’ Association (FUTA), revealed on Wednesday that the State House had reportedly asked them to undertake Covid tests today ahead of the expected talks with the President.

In a petition filled to the finance Minister Traders raised a number of concerns that may need instant reaction from government.

This publication was unable to confirm the alleged development at the time of filing this story.

The strike, which has now entered the fifth day has seen traders in various regions, including the City Center, Iganga, Jinja, Mbarara, Luwero, and Mityana, close down shops in protest against what they perceive as challenges posed by the tax assessment tool.

Despite these varied reactions, there is a unanimous call for revising the EFRIS system among all members of the business community.

Leaders of Traders Speak out

Godfrey Katongole, Chairman of the Kampala Arcades Association-KATA, expressed frustration over unsuccessful attempts to engage with the government on the matter, leading to the closure of businesses. This sentiment is echoed by many traders who feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed.

In response to the escalating protests, John Musinguzi, the URA Commissioner General, stated that EFRIS would not be removed but emphasized ongoing efforts to engage with the business community and understand the implications of the new policy.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to meet with leaders of the striking traders this week to explore ways of resolving their objections as the strike continues to spread across the county. This meeting signifies a proactive approach to address the concerns raised by the business community and find mutually acceptable solutions.

Support for the traders’ protest has also come from unexpected quarters. Kampala Central Mayor, Salim Uhuru, despite his affiliation with the ruling party, voiced support for the traders protesting the EFRIS system, acknowledging its negative impact on businesses.

Furthermore, the state minister of Trade, David Bahati, informed parliament about ongoing engagements between ministers from the Ministry of Trade and Ministry of Finance with leaders of traders to find ways to resolve the impasse between traders and URA.

The ongoing sit-down strike highlights broader issues with tax regimes, the new tax collection system EFRIS, and other challenges faced by traders in Uganda. It underscores the importance of dialogue, understanding, and finding solutions that balance tax compliance objectives with the needs and concerns of the business community.