Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Commissioner General John Musinguzi has dismissed claims that Ugandans are being overtaxed, insisting that all levies are legally grounded and fairly applied.
“No one in this country is overtaxed; all taxes are fair and clearly stipulated by the law. Tension arises only when payments are delayed,” Musinguzi said while appearing on UBC.
He acknowledged that paying taxes involves some sacrifice but stressed it serves the nation’s long-term interests.
“While paying taxes comes with a cost and sacrifice, it is for the greater good,” he added.
On the ongoing URA–traders standoff, the tax chief described it as part of a constructive process rather than a justification for strikes.
He noted that feedback from traders has already shaped reforms to the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS).
“User feedback has led to changes in EFRIS, including reducing the penalty from Shs6 million to just double the original amount owed,” Musinguzi revealed.
He also highlighted URA’s efforts to broaden the tax base and improve compliance.
“Another strategy to expand the base has been training our employees to manage the growing register, while also automating processes to make remittances faster and more efficient,” he explained.
Musinguzi however appreciated Ugandan taxpayers for their role in national development.
“We are grateful for the efforts of our taxpayers in supporting economic growth,” he said.
