By Matik Kueth
The government of Central Equatoria State (CES) has formally objected to a recent initiative by the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) to divide Juba into operational tax zones, accusing the national body of exceeding its mandate and bypassing necessary consultations.
The decision came during CES’s weekly Council of Ministers meeting on Thursday, led by State Governor Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel.
The cabinet unanimously voted against the SSRA’s zoning strategy and urged an immediate halt to its implementation.
In a statement, Acting Information and Communication Minister Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado said the council viewed the move as unconstitutional.
“The Council resolved to reject this unilateral decision and urges the South Sudan Revenue Authority to revoke it. Such actions violate Article 49 of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan (2011), as amended, which calls for the respect of intergovernmental linkages,” Lado stated.
The SSRA’s campaign includes plans for a door-to-door taxpayer registration drive in Juba, targeting businesses, service providers, and self-employed individuals.
The authority aims to improve tax compliance and boost domestic revenue by organizing the capital into ten distinct zones.
Earlier this week, Simon Akuei Deng, SSRA’s Commissioner, clarified that the exercise is free of charge and warned against fraud.
“No one is allowed to demand payment during the registration. Anyone found impersonating South Sudan Revenue Authority officials or collecting money will be prosecuted,” he cautioned.
CES leaders, however, argue that such an operation requires joint planning and coordination with state institutions.
The cabinet underscored the importance of inclusive governance, calling on the SSRA to engage with the Central Equatoria State Government and the Juba City Council prior to initiating such campaigns.
It further reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public order, protecting citizens’ rights, and ensuring that all levels of government work collaboratively.