Hopeful Member of Parliament for Soroti City West, Patrick Anoku, has called for the formulation of national policies that regulate taxes levied on ordinary citizens, saying excessive taxation is crippling the survival of low-income earners and small-scale traders.
Speaking during the official launch of his parliamentary campaign in Orwadai Ward on Monday, Anoku said many Ugandans are overtaxed, particularly on goods and services that are essential for daily survival.
He emphasized that this overburden has slowed economic growth at the household level, leaving many families unable to meet their basic needs.
“We cannot continue watching as our people are taxed beyond their ability to earn and live decently. The government must design policies that protect the common person, especially those operating small businesses and markets,” Anoku stated.
He noted that while taxation is necessary for national development, there should be fairness and a clear framework that supports local enterprise instead of suffocating it.
According to Anoku, unregulated taxes imposed by local authorities and national agencies have discouraged entrepreneurship, particularly among youth and women in informal businesses.
Anoku pledged that, once elected, he will work closely with the business community and relevant government agencies to develop favorable tax regulations that support job creation and investment at the grassroots level.
He said his leadership would focus on promoting “people-centered policies” that uplift ordinary citizens rather than frustrate them.
“My campaign is built on the principle of inclusion and fairness. I will consult the people of Soroti City West on every policy that affects their livelihoods. Together, we can shape a taxation system that empowers rather than punishes,” he added.
The campaign launch attracted a sizable crowd of supporters, local leaders, and business operators from various parts of the city.
Many of them applauded Anoku’s message, describing it as timely and relevant given the current economic challenges.
Anoku’s remarks come at a time when small business owners across the country have raised concerns about rising taxes, licensing fees, and market dues imposed by different government bodies.
His call adds to the growing demand for comprehensive tax reforms that balance government revenue needs with citizens’ capacity to pay.
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