MUGABE R
Landlords and Ladies of Rukungiri Municipality have been advised to either comply with the current property tax requirements or seek legal redress through the courts if they feel aggrieved.
The call was made during a mediation meeting held at Riverside Hotel in Eastern Division, Rukungiri Municipality, bringing together the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Rukungiri, Buroni Kikanshemeza, the Mayor of Rukungiri Municipality, His Worship Charles Makuru, and the Town Clerk, Isaiah Tumwesigye. The meeting was organized in response to complaints from landlords and ladies protesting what they described as extortion in property tax assessments.
Robert Darius Tweyambe, the Chairperson of the Rukungiri Municipality Landlords and Ladies Association, raised concern over what he termed an abnormal tax increment of over 700%. He called for the suspension of enforcement, greater accountability in revenue sharing, and a return to previous rates until a resolution is reached through continued dialogue and collaboration.
The Town Clerk, Isaiah Tumwesigye, presented statistics indicating that 77% of registered landlords and ladies are already complying with the tax requirements. He advised those with grievances to either comply with the law or seek guidance from the courts, emphasizing that tax regulations must be followed.
Mayor Charles Makuru highlighted issues surrounding the taxpayers’ register and noted concerns about misuse of the 30-day petition period. He urged stakeholders to embrace voluntary compliance in order to avoid unnecessary conflict and embarrassment.
RDC Buroni Kikanshemeza acknowledged concerns over increased taxes and communication gaps that have caused confusion among taxpayers. He emphasized the need for better awareness and engagement while maintaining that all parties must either comply with the law or seek judicial interpretation.
The meeting concluded with the RDC calling for practical guidance from the Town Clerk to help resolve the dispute, while reaffirming the importance of respecting the law and maintaining order in tax administration.
