Staff
Robert Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform and former presidential candidate declined the recall of his vehicle by Uganda Revenue Authority for re-verification.
Abey Kagumire a URA commissioner for customs on February 24, wrote to Kyagulanyi recalling the armoured car, a Toyota Land Cruiser (UBJ 667F).
In the letter, he explained that an inquiry has been conducted into the circumstances under which the motor vehicle was cleared and subsequently registered.
“Our findings reveal among others that the above vehicle was declared to customs as an ordinary motor vehicle instead of an armoured motor vehicle; the implication of which is that the vehicle was undervalued at sh167,925,502.
“In accordance with Sections 2369(d) of the East African Community Customs Management Act 2004 as amended, you are required to voluntary bring the above-mentioned vehicle to UAR Nakawa Inland Port to undergo a re-verification process not later than 3:00 pm on February 26, 2021, without fail,” the letter added.
But, in his response through his lawyers Wameli and Co. Advocates, Kyagulanyi says, “Much as it is true that you (Commissioner of customs) have powers under Section 236 (d) of the EAC Customs Management Act to ‘examine’ goods, you do not have automatic powers to ‘re-examine’ goods which were in your custody (warehouse), were examined, assessed for tax, the tax fully paid and the goods released to the owner/taxpayer.
“Your decision,” the lawyers add, “to recall our client’s motor vehicle is not only arbitrary and without legal basis, but it is also a threat to our client’s right to property and privacy, among others.”
The lawyers, also demanded that the Commissioner, “Immediately” withdraws his decision to recall their client’s car, “As long as such decision is arbitrary and not supported by any law.”
The lawyer’s letter, received by URA on Friday, February 26, has not yet been responded to.
