Burundian Authorities Crack Down on Tax Evaders

Revealed: Significant Number of Taxpayers Misrepresenting Rental Income

The Burundian Revenue Authority (OBR) has discovered a significant number of taxpayers deliberately misrepresenting their monthly rental income in order to lower rental taxes. This revelation was made public by OBR spokesman Stany Ngendakumana during a meeting with Bujumbura city administrative authorities on February 6.

Punishment for Tax Evaders

According to Ngendakumana, the affected taxpayers will be punished according to the law. The OBR has set up institutions to regularly monitor the payment of rental taxes and identify those who engage in fraudulent activity. “We consider such taxpayers as tax evaders,” Ngendakumana emphasized.

Reward for Reporting Fraudulent Activity

In a bid to encourage administrative authorities and the general population to report fraudulent activity, OBR has announced that it will reward individuals who come forward with information about tax evaders. “Burundi Revenue Authority will give a bonus to anyone who denounces these fraudsters,” Ngendakumana said.

Consequences of Tax Evasion on the Economy

The spokesman for OBR also highlighted the consequences of tax evasion on the country’s economy. If taxes are lowered, he explained, the State coffers cannot be filled, which would hinder Burundi’s efforts towards financial self-sufficiency. “If taxes are lowered, the State coffers cannot be filled,” Ngendakumana stated. “The purpose of Burundi Revenue Authority is to make the country financially self-sufficient through collected taxes.”

Key Points:

• Significant number of taxpayers misrepresenting rental income
• Affected taxpayers will be punished according to the law
• OBR set up institutions to monitor payment of rental taxes
• Reward for reporting fraudulent activity
• Tax evasion hinders Burundi’s efforts towards financial self-sufficiency