By Martha Kachingwe Phiri
The planned demonstrations tomorrow, Wednesday, to push for total compliance among traders in the implementation of the Electronic Invoicing System (EIS) by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) have been postponed.
This follows a stakeholders’ meeting between the organisers, Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI), and Lilongwe City Council Tuesday afternoon.
Among others, the meeting observed increasing compliance on the part of the traders in opening shops under the new framework of the EIS.
It was further noted that the shops that are currently not open are undergoing an audit to comply with the same.
Again, the communication of the meeting resolution The Radar has seen says that the two sides agreed to postpone the protests to pave the way for further observations in compliance with the new system.
In an interview, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa confirmed the postponement of the demonstrations but vowed to continue monitoring the situation to ensure total compliance by traders.
He said: “We did not agree fully. Since they claim that there is compliance with EIS, we have given them a benefit of doubt up until next week on Tuesday.”
CDEDI is demanding the Ministry of Homeland Security to revoke the work and business permits of those protesting the EIS and Ministry of Trade and local councils to cancel the traders’ licenses.
MRA has refused to succumb to resistance and pressure from some traders who are protesting the new system, claiming it’s expensive and complex, especially in declaring stock values and complying with electronic invoicing procedures.
The tax-collecting body maintains the initiative seeks to improve tax administration, transparency, and revenue collection.
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