Malawi Government Urges Civil Society to Promote Tax Compliance
The government's appeal highlights ongoing challenges in Malawi's fiscal management and the potential role of civil society in addressing these issues.
LILONGWE, Malawi— Malawi's government called on civil society organizations Wednesday to help promote tax compliance among citizens as a means to boost revenue for local development projects, writes Martin Kamlaike.
Dr. Betchani Tchereni, Secretary to the Treasury, made the appeal at the National Debt Conference organized by the Malawi Economic Justice Network in Lilongwe.
"Civil society is only demanding to cut expenditure instead of raising awareness of the masses on paying taxes and providing tough solutions to maximize revenue," Tchereni said.
He announced plans for a zero-deficit budget aimed at increasing productivity and pushing Malawi's development forward. Tchereni also criticized some borrowing conditions as leading to unnecessary construction projects.
Madalitso Kazombo, First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, expressed concern over government borrowing for consumption and high corruption rates in various ministries and agencies.
"Malawi has the capacity to do better," Kazombo said, calling for bills focused on production to improve citizens' lives.
Bertha Lipipa-Phiri, MEJN Executive Director, said the conference would assess government progress on recommendations from a 2022 debt conference and examine legal frameworks for public debt management.
The government's appeal highlights ongoing challenges in Malawi's fiscal management and the potential role of civil society in addressing these issues.