Lunte member of parliament, Kafwaya, condemns new tax hikes, warns of rising burden on Zambians (video)

Lunte Constituency lawmaker, Mutotwe Kafwaya, has strongly criticised the government’s taxation policies, warning that the introduction of new taxes and hikes on existing ones will deepen the financial burden on struggling businesses and citizens.

His remarks followed the recent announcement by Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane, of a series of tax increases targeting bars, betting shops, and soft drinks, aimed at raising revenue for Zambia’s K33.6 billion supplementary budget.

Speaking to Zambia Monitor in an exclusive interview, Kafwaya argued that instead of increasing taxes, the government should focus on creating a conducive environment for businesses to grow and thrive.

“This approach is not people-centred. The government should be focused on creating opportunities for businesses and individuals to prosper, not over-taxing them,” he said.

Kafwaya also raised concerns over the government’s borrowing strategy, noting that the high-interest rates—reported at 13 percent—and dollar-denominated loans would lead to a significant repayment burden for the Zambian people.

Read More: Musokotwane presents K33.6 billion supplementary budget to address fuel arrears, debt servicing, social support

He questioned why the government continued to borrow heavily despite Zambia’s abundant natural resources.

“Why is the government failing to create a system that effectively utilises and benefits from our natural resources, such as the recently discovered gold in Mufumbwe?” he asked.

On parliamentary affairs, Kafwaya expressed disappointment over the conduct of National Assembly Speaker Nelly Mutti, who recently ordered several Members of Parliament, including himself, to leave the House during debates on the supplementary budget.

He alleged that the Speaker’s actions were designed to silence dissenting voices and limit parliamentary debate.

“Madam Speaker must recognise the rights of all Members of Parliament to represent their constituents and express their views. She must avoid picking sides,” he said.

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