By Duncan Mlanjira
Concerned Chitipa citizens have petitioned Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) that it should facilitate for the upgrade of the access to to Mbilima Border Post which is in bad shape.
However, the concerned citizens have given MRA 7 days from January 2, 2020 to respond to the request failing which the government tax collecting body should remove its officers from Mbilima Border Post or expect unpleasant unspecified action.
The petition to Chitipa MRA officer in charge is signed by nine concerned citizens and copied to the District Commissioner.
“We feel it is hypocrisy of highest order and daylight robbery that you collect revenue from us at the said border post and yet the road network connecting is in bad shape,” says the petition.
“You, therefore, have no basis whatsoever for benefiting from us when your (government) service on the road leaves a lot to be desired.
“Do not civic educate us that road construction or upgrading is not your responsibility. The Malawi Government is one and all the services by governmental agencies and up in the OPC. Simple and straight forward.
“We, therefore give you 7 days to get rid of your officers from Mbilima Border Post or we will react in a manner you will not like.”
The concerned citizens also requests MRA to construct offices at the border post and not tents where the officers are currently operating from.
“What do you do with all the revenue that you are failing even to build your offices?” questions the petitioners, who all appended their signatures as well as provided phone contacts.
The petitioners acting on behalf of fellow citizens are Dave Msongole, Mernard Mwaungulu, Fred Mwanginde, Moir Simengwa, Alick Kalagho, George Nyondo, Raphael Kalinga, Nichoras Sinyangwe and Daniby Mubisa.
When contacted, MRA spokesperson Steve Kapoloma only respond by saying he will come back to this reporter but never did.