Today we see those who once labeled the tax system as irreligious now working to impose even more taxes: Mauroof

The current administration lacks the moral standing to discuss taxation, as those who once condemned the tax system as irreligious are now the ones seeking to impose further taxes on the public, stated Mauroof Zakir, the Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.

During the debate on the proposed amendment to the Income Tax Act, Mauroof noted that those who had previously labeled the introduction of the tax system under the MDP administration as "irreligious" are now the ones in power, actively seeking to impose additional taxes.

Mauroof stated that when the government came to power, they pledged not to introduce any new taxes, promising instead to only broaden the tax base. However, questioning whether this is what is actually happening, Mauroof asserted that the current administration does not even know how to effectively broaden the tax base.

When this administration assumed office, they repeatedly pledged not to introduce any new taxes, promising instead to focus solely on expanding the tax base. However, is that what is actually being done? In reality, this government lacks the competence to even broaden the tax base effectively.

Mauroof Zakir

Highlighting some of the current administration's actions, Mauroof stated that this government has facilitated a system where large areas of the Maldives can be sold as townships under Special Economic Zones (SEZ), allowing foreigners to reside there while paying as little as one percent in taxes. Therefore, Mauroof asserted that there is no point in the government attempting to mislead the public.

Mauroof stated that what is being witnessed today is a nation struggling to navigate its affairs after falling into a state of economic and financial distress. He further noted that Maldivian contractors are currently in a dire situation. According to Mauroof, there are local contractors owed over a million rufiyaa, and they are now seen constantly pursuing the government to secure their due payments.

Mauroof highlighted that the current administration lacks even the capacity to settle outstanding payments to contractors. As significant questions arise regarding the government's fiscal policies, the deteriorating economic situation has led to a move toward imposing additional taxes.