Landlords in Rukungiri Push for Property Rate Review, Warn of Legal Action

Landlords in Rukungiri Raise Concerns Over Property Tax Practices

Landlords in Rukungiri Municipality have raised significant concerns about the current property tax system, calling for an urgent reassessment of the rates they consider unjust and unlawful. They are also demanding greater transparency regarding how collected revenues are being used.

The issues were brought to light during a press briefing held at Virunga Gardens in Kafunjo Cell, Eastern Division. The event was led by Robert Baguma Darius Tweyambe, Chairperson of the Landlords and Landladies Association. Tweyambe spoke on behalf of property owners, expressing frustration over the municipality’s management of property taxes. He highlighted the lack of clarity in valuation methods and the forceful enforcement practices that have been implemented.

“The municipality has relied on valuation lists that have neither been verified nor made public, yet demand notices and penalties continue to be issued,” Tweyambe stated. This lack of transparency has left many landlords feeling unfairly targeted and unsure of their obligations.

Key Issues Raised by Landlords

The association outlined several critical issues that have contributed to the growing discontent among property owners. These include:

• The absence of an updated and accessible valuation roll, which makes it difficult for landlords to understand their tax liabilities.
• A failure to officially communicate new rates, leading to confusion and potential overpayment.
• Excessive charges introduced without proper consultation, which many believe are not justified.

In addition to these concerns, the landlords criticized the collection methods employed by the municipality. They pointed out that there is a lack of accountability regarding the use of property tax funds, which has further fueled their dissatisfaction.

“Since November 2011, authorities have not provided any report detailing property tax collections or expenditures. Property owners are systematically excluded from monitoring service delivery, contrary to legal requirements,” Tweyambe added. This lack of information has left many landlords feeling as though they are being treated as mere sources of revenue rather than partners in community development.

Impact on Landlords and Businesses

The current enforcement practices, according to Tweyambe, have had a significant impact on both landlords and businesses. Many have faced financial strain, with some even forced to shut down operations due to the pressure of unpaid taxes. Emotional stress has also been reported, as property owners struggle to navigate an opaque and seemingly unfair system.

In response to these challenges, the association has issued a 14-day ultimatum. They are demanding an immediate halt to ongoing enforcement actions and a review of the current property rates. As part of this request, they are seeking permission to pay based on the 2024/2025 rates.

Demands for Accountability and Fairness

The landlords have also called for a full accountability report covering property tax revenues and expenditures since 2011. They want the association to be included in overseeing fund usage and service delivery, ensuring that property tax money is used appropriately.

Additionally, they are requesting refunds for any overpayments and the cancellation of penalties and interest charges. While the association remains willing to pay taxes, they emphasize that the rates must be fair and transparent.

Tweyambe warned that failure to address these concerns may compel the association to seek legal redress, including court orders for compensation. This threat underscores the seriousness of their demands and the potential consequences if their grievances remain unaddressed.

Call for Support from Stakeholders

The Landlords and Landladies Association has also called on stakeholders across Rukungiri District to support their push for fairness and accountability in property taxation. They believe that a collaborative effort is essential to ensure that the system works for everyone involved.

Efforts to obtain a comment from municipal authorities were unsuccessful, leaving the issue unresolved for now. However, the association remains committed to advocating for change and ensuring that property owners’ voices are heard.