Kampala traders, organised under the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), are demanding an urgent meeting with Uganda Revenue Authority Commissioner General John Musinguzi Rujoki to discuss what they say is an unsustainable tax burden threatening their survival. KACITA Vice Spokesperson Sulaiman Matovu said traders are struggling with current economic conditions and rising taxes, with some businesses on the verge of collapse. Speaking on Salam TV's Omukeeze programme, Matovu explained that traders attempted to meet the URA Commissioner General on November 10, 2026, to present their concerns and seek solutions.
The meeting did not take place after traders were asked to leave their mobile phones behind before entering, Matovu said. Traders rejected the condition, arguing that while URA was within its rights to restrict phones during the meeting, authorities should have communicated the requirement in advance to avoid misunderstandings. The disagreement reportedly escalated into a riot. Matovu emphasised that traders are not opposed to paying taxes but want URA to listen to their challenges and consider measures that would make tax compliance more manageable.
Matovu warned that continued pressure on businesses could have wider economic consequences, noting that when businesses collapse, the government loses an important source of tax revenue. 'Without businesses, there will be no taxes to pay. URA and the traders need each other,' he said. He also revealed that KACITA offices were reportedly raided by police on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, after which traders began using mobile phones to maintain communication and follow up on the matter.
Matovu appealed to authorities to prioritise dialogue over force, arguing that a peaceful meeting between URA leadership and traders would provide a better opportunity to address concerns and prevent further tensions. He encouraged traders to return to their businesses while KACITA continues seeking an opportunity to meet the Commissioner General. Traders say they remain hopeful that URA will reconsider their request for a meeting, stressing that constructive engagement between the tax authority and the business community is essential for protecting businesses, sustaining economic activity and ensuring continued tax revenue collection.