Morobe Governor Luther Wenge urgently appeal to Prime Minister James Marape to convene a parliamentary session and repeal the recently enacted income tax law.
Wenge attributes the recent demonstrations and protests in Port Moresby to the contentious law being implemented by the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) in 2024.
He emphasizes the unprecedented resistance against an unjust and burdensome law, urging the Prime Minister to address the matter promptly by calling for parliamentary action.
Wenge criticizes the IRC for their role in implementing the law, emphasizing the need for accountability.
He calls upon the Prime Minister and the Speaker of Parliament to promptly convene a parliamentary session to reconsider and amend the law, ensuring it aligns with the interests of the nation.
Wenge insists that the IRC cease the illegitimate imposition of taxes, underlining the detrimental impact on both businesses and citizens.
While advocating for the cessation of the strikes, Wenge does not condone illegal activities such as property destruction.
He urges citizens to channel their concerns through elected leaders like himself and other representatives, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue through proper channels.
Governor Wenge sheds light on the income tax rates outlined in the 2024 Budget Amendment Bill of 2023, specifying different tax brackets.
He contends that the ongoing situation is a consequence of the law and refutes claims of error or miscalculation by the IRC, asserting that it complies with existing legislation.
Wenge highlights the economic challenges facing the country, such as the devaluation of the kina, and the subsequent impact on businesses, which are compelled to raise prices due to increased import costs.
He points out that this, in turn, adversely affects the salaries of public servants and those in the private sector, especially when coupled with existing loans.
In conclusion, Governor Luther Wenge expresses deep concern over the current situation, foreseeing significant hardships for the people of Papua New Guinea.
He underscores the urgent need for parliamentary intervention to rectify the law and alleviate the burdens imposed on the citizens.