By Aggrey Baba
In a call to action, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has challenged clearing agents to be the frontline fighters against corruption within their profession.
During an engaging session with over 650 clearing agents at Hotel Africana on Thursday, Commissioner General John R. Musinguzi urged them to clean up their industry and help safeguard Uganda’s economic growth.
Musinguzi highlighted the significant role clearing agents play in either facilitating or combating corruption in customs processes, stressing that corruption cannot exist without their involvement. “At URA, we say ‘Zero tolerance to corruption, and we have lost many staff because of it,” he said. “But we know there is no corruption in customs without the help of clearing agents. What have you done about it? Almost nothing.”
He urged the clearing and forwarding leaders to take a stand by dismissing and reporting corrupt agents, noting that these individuals are hurting their profession and hindering Uganda’s development. “It’s better to have a few professional and efficient firms than many that bring shame and dishonor,” Musinguzi said, stressing the importance of integrity in the industry.
The Commissioner General called for a shift in mindset, asking all stakeholders, including URA, clearing agents, and taxpayers, to work together in a more honest and efficient manner. “We must clean up our associations,” he stated.
Ag. Commissioner of the Customs Department, Hajji Asadu Kizito Kisitu, thanked the clearing agents for their vital role in Uganda’s development. “Your contribution cannot be overstated. The government relies on the revenue collected by citizens, and you play a key role in ensuring this happens,” he said.
However, Kisitu warned against practices like export fraud, misdeclaration, and false documentation, as these actions can lead to the cancellation of licenses.
The clearing agents also requested URA to extend the duration of their customs agents’ licenses from one year to three years to avoid delays during the renewal process.
[A clean hand is better than a thousand promises], and URA, clearing agents alike must work together to ensure honesty and professionalism in the industry for a brighter future. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
