By 
Pumulo Situmbeko, leader of the New Era Democratic Party, has called for improved tax collection mechanisms and greater government accountability in light of revelations that US$500 million in taxes remains uncollected.
Speaking in response to a press query from Zambia Monitor about the recent fuel price hikes announced by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), Situmbeko criticized the government’s approach, arguing that citizens should not be made to shoulder the financial strain caused by global economic pressures.
“Instead of imposing further hardships on Zambians through fuel price hikes, the government must ensure that taxes are collected and efficiently used to stabilize the economy,” she stated.
Situmbeko referenced U.S. Ambassador, Michael Gonzales’ recent disclosure during an Anti-Corruption Commission conference in Kitwe, highlighting the failure of the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) to collect US$500 million in taxes this year.
“The people of Zambia deserve better governance and a fair economic environment—one where inefficiencies and corruption are tackled head-on,” she said, demanding that the government account for the significant revenue shortfall.
With the Kwacha trading at nearly K28 to $1, Situmbeko noted that Zambians were facing intense financial pressures, worsened by rising fuel costs that ripple across transportation, food production, and overall living expenses.
“While global oil prices are falling, Zambians are grappling with escalating fuel costs, which exacerbate inflation and deepen the hardships for families. The government’s continued fuel price hikes defy global trends and are unfair to consumers,” she added.
Situmbeko argued that the uncollected $500 million could have been used to alleviate citizens’ burdens, stabilize fuel prices, or provide subsidies.
She stressed the urgent need for accountability and effective governance to address the country’s economic challenges.
“The government cannot expect Zambians to bear the weight of global fluctuations alone while neglecting to recover critical resources that could ease their plight,” Situmbeko concluded.
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