DPM Temesgen hails loyal taxpayers as national heroes, condemns evasion

Addis Ababa, July 4, 2024 (FBC) – Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Truneh expressed admiration for dedicated taxpayers as national heroes during the closing ceremony of the Tax and Customs Law-Subjectivity Movement from February 2023 to February 2024.

The event took place on July 4 at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa and was graced by esteemed government officials including Revenue Minister Aynalem Nigussie and Industry Minister Melaku Alebel, among others.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Truneh emphasized that loyal taxpayers play a crucial role in nation-building, likening their contributions to those made by citizens who sacrifice their lives during wartime.

He also condemned tax evasion as an act akin to banditry, highlighting the importance of financial contributions towards sustaining peace and development within the country.

Temesgen emphasized the need to transform perceptions surrounding taxes in order to drive Ethiopia’s development, meet citizens’ essential needs, eradicate poverty, and advance towards prosperity.

He advocated for a shift in mindset where honest taxpayers are revered as heroes safeguarding the nation’s economic sovereignty while those who evade taxes are viewed as traitors and bandits.

Temesgen urged society to recognize that fulfilling tax obligations is not only beneficial for themselves but also imperative for the well-being of their beloved country.

Drawing parallels with Ethiopians’ historical sacrifices during wartime, he underscored the importance of willingly contributing through taxation during peacetime as a means of upholding national progress.

On her part, Ms. Aynalem Nigussie highlighted ongoing endeavors to enhance and modernize customer service within the tax system. She emphasized the implementation of a digital technology platform aimed at facilitating smoother processes for taxpayers.

Furthermore, she acknowledged that her ministry is collaborating closely with security agencies to address challenges encountered in tax collection procedures effectively.

Ms. Aynalem also noted that while significant progress has been made in apprehending thousands of tax evaders, there are still individuals who have managed to evade detection thus far.

She affirmed their commitment to intensify efforts towards identifying and addressing these cases diligently.