LIRA CITY, UGANDA – Lira City East tipper drivers have unanimously resolved to stop paying a newly imposed levy on each trip of sand or gravel they ferry, sparking a standoff with local revenue collectors.
The decision came on Friday last week during a crucial meeting held at Golden City Hotel in Ayago, where over 43 tipper drivers gathered to address the sudden enforcement of the tax, which ranges between 2,000 and 5,000 shillings per trip per tipper.
The drivers, who transport construction materials across the city, voiced their frustration, stating that they were neither consulted nor informed about the tax prior to its implementation. They argued that the levy adds an unbearable financial burden, especially given the current high cost of fuel.
Johnson Okello, the Chairperson of the Got Ngetta Tipper Drivers Association in Anyangapuc Ward, expressed outrage over the lack of communication from the city authorities.
"We were never told about this tax. Unless the Lira City Authority sits down with us and explains it properly, we will not collect or pay this revenue," Okello declared.
His sentiments were echoed by Jonathan Okec of Akia Stage, who emphasized that the drivers are not opposed to paying taxes in principle, but they demand proper procedure.
"It is not okay for Lira City to levy a tax on us without our prior knowledge. We are not refusing tax, but the way it was brought to us was not right," Okec stated.
Tonny Okuk Ogwang, Chairperson of the Ayago Tipper Drivers, also weighed in, suggesting that the revenue should have been collected directly from the sellers of sand or gravel rather than from the drivers. He noted that drivers are now finding it difficult to explain the new charges to the sellers, putting them in an awkward position.
The drivers have found support from city leaders, including Charles Opio Olol, the Councilor representing Lira City East Division to Lira City Council. Olol has warned all tipper drivers operating in the division to stop paying the revenue effective last week.
Santa Ayo Angella, Councilor for Lira City East A to Lira City Council, acknowledged receiving reports about the collections and confirmed that the tax is being enforced illegally. She urged that all concerned parties must ensure due process and follow the law when introducing new taxes.
Reacting to the uproar, Emmanuel Komakech, the Deputy Town Clerk for Lira City East Division, clarified that the revenue collection is currently on a trial basis. He assured the drivers that a meeting would be called to address their concerns.
Komakech acknowledged the communication gap, stating that while the division attempted to inform the drivers, they were often busy with their work, which led to the misunderstanding. He noted that they had met some drivers but promised to engage all stakeholders moving forward.
As the standoff continues, all eyes are now on the Lira City Authority to see whether they will engage the drivers in meaningful dialogue or risk a prolonged dispute that could disrupt the supply of construction materials in the city.
