Mukono Mayor Suspends Property Tax Collectors Amid Extortion Allegations

Mukono mayor Robert Peter Kabanda has suspended property tax collectors accused of extorting money from traders. The suspension follows complaints from traders' representatives who alleged that the collectors were demanding more than they owed and threatening them. Kabanda directed municipal officials to keep the collectors off duty until they had undergone training and been presented before him.

The allegations against the property tax collectors were presented to Kabanda at his office by traders' representatives. Traders' chairperson Vincent Lukwago warned that if the municipality failed to act, the alleged harassment could lead to confrontations. Lukwago also accused some council employees of taking money from traders on the promise of settling their tax bills but failing to pass it on to the municipality.

One trader, Enesifori Mugabi, told the meeting that the collectors had demanded payments he did not owe. This prompted Kabanda to take action against the collectors. The mayor's directive aims to address the traders' concerns and prevent further harassment. The municipal finance officer, Badrub Kibirige, cautioned that cancelling the company's contract could have financial implications for the municipality.

The contract with the company had already seen some work carried out under the agreement. Acting deputy resident district commissioner Muzamir Wamundu warned that if the complaints were left unresolved, they could lead to protests. Traders have asked the municipality to tighten supervision of its collectors to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The suspension of the property tax collectors is a temporary measure until they undergo training. Kabanda's directive aims to restore trust between the municipality and traders. The mayor's office has not provided a timeline for the training or the collectors' return to work. The incident highlights the need for effective supervision of municipal officials.

The traders' allegations against the property tax collectors and council employees are being investigated. The municipality's response aims to address the concerns and prevent similar incidents. The incident has raised questions about the vetting process for municipal officials and the need for stricter oversight.

The Mukono municipality has not commented on the number of collectors suspended or the duration of their training. The mayor's office has assured traders that their concerns are being addressed. The incident is a reminder of the challenges faced by local authorities in collecting taxes and the need for transparency in municipal operations.

Key points

• The Mukono mayor has suspended property tax collectors over allegations of extortion and harassment of traders.
• The suspension aims to address traders' concerns and prevent further harassment.
• The incident highlights the need for effective supervision of municipal officials and transparency in municipal operations.