The Conseil communal de la jeunesse in Beni, Democratic Republic of the Congo, has expressed concern over the multiplication of taxes at the Beni-Pasisi barrier, located at the exit of the city of Beni, in the commune of Mulekera. According to Kamabu Mukama, a member of the council, users are required to pay 1,000 Congolese francs as a communal tax when leaving the city.
The youth council reports that, upon returning from the fields, additional amounts of 1,000 to 5,000 Congolais francs are being claimed on agricultural products and other goods. This has caused distress among the local population, who are already struggling to make a living. The council is calling on the authorities to clarify the situation and verify the use of the collected sums.
The council is questioning the destination of the revenue collected at this barrier and is urging the elected deputies of Beni to conduct an audit, particularly on the levies imposed on agricultural products. According to Mukama, the youth council is demanding the abolition of the tax on agricultural products, which they claim is unfair and burdensome to the local population.
The situation has reportedly led to tragic consequences, with Mukama mentioning the case of a motorcyclist who allegedly took his own life at the barrier due to the multiple taxes. Although this information could not be independently confirmed, it highlights the desperation and frustration felt by some members of the community.
In response to the youth council's concerns, the burgomaster of the commune of Mulekera, Commissioner Ngongo Mayanga, has promised to investigate the reported facts and take necessary measures to find a suitable solution as soon as possible. The authorities' prompt attention to this matter is crucial in addressing the grievances of the local population.
The incident in Beni is not an isolated case, as similar concerns about illegal taxes and extortion have been reported in other parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The youth council's call for transparency and accountability in the collection and use of taxes is a legitimate one, and it is hoped that the authorities will take concrete steps to address these issues.
The Beni-Pasisi barrier tax issue highlights the need for effective governance and oversight in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Key points
- The youth council in Beni is demanding an audit of the taxes collected at the Beni-Pasisi barrier and the abolition of the tax on agricultural products.
- The authorities have promised to investigate the reported facts and take necessary measures to find a solution.
- The incident is part of a broader pattern of concerns about illegal taxes and extortion in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
