Central Equatoria Seeks Clarity on Revenue Collection Boundaries

(JUBA) – The Central Equatoria State High Level Committee tasked with investigating tax encroachment by national institutions has submitted its report to Governor Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel at the State Secretariat in Juba.

The Committee, chaired by Deputy Governor Paulino Lukudu Obede, was formed last month through a gubernatorial order to examine cases where national bodies, including the National Revenue Authority, may have operated within the constitutional mandate of the state without proper authorisation.

Speaking after the handover, Acting Minister of Information and Communication Hon. Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado said the inquiry was prompted by instances where the constitutional powers of Central Equatoria appeared to have been overlooked.

“Some national government institutions have been conducting activities at lower levels without the consent of the state. The report highlights such loopholes and will be shared with the national government,” Hon. Aligo said.

He called for mutual respect between national and state authorities and stressed the need for prior consultation before decisions are made that affect state jurisdictions.

“As a government, we respect the rule of law and our National Constitution. But when the Constitution is violated, we have the right to raise the matter so that actions are taken within the law,” Hon. Aligo said.

The Acting Minister emphasised the importance of dialogue and constructive engagement with the national government to resolve such matters amicably, noting that cooperation would strengthen intergovernmental relations and uphold constitutional integrity.

While no specific figures were disclosed, state officials have previously indicated that overlapping taxation practices can reduce state revenue, affecting service delivery, including impact on local infrastructure projects and public services.

Governor Mujung is expected to share the findings with the national government for further discussion, with the aim of clarifying mandates and preventing future overlaps in taxation authority.