BY KENNETH FUNALASI
In a dramatic twist of events, a law firm has added its voice on the Value Added Tax (VAT) that is earmarked to be implemented by the Banks early next month.
Kawelo Lawyers have penned the Attorney General (AG) Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda to swiftly act on the matter.
This follows the Bankers Association of Malawi(BAM)’ press release which has notified the general public that effective 1st November, 2021, Banks will start charging 16.5% VAT to its customers for their services.
According to a letter dated today, 29th October, 2021 and signed by its senior partner Mr. Wesley Chalo Kawelo Mwafulirwa, the firm is acting on behalf of vulnerable members of the Malawian communities who have been in contact with the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC).
Among others, the legal minds have pointed out that the implementation of the VAT will affect the actualization of the people’ rights to economic activity, equity and dignity.
In view of this, the lawyers have urged the AG’s office to immediately start the process of reviewing the impugned sections of the amended law.
The firm has also warned that in the event that the demands are not met, they will commence legal proceedings for a judicial review on the matter.
