Samuel Kallon 
By Ragan M. Conteh
The SLPP Parliamentarian from Kenema who doubles as the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew S. Nyuma stated in the Chambers of Parliament that he sees no reason why people want to dodge the payment of taxes especially the traders.
He said when people travel abroad they pay taxes for everything but when it comes to Sierra Leone, their own country, they do not want to pay.
The MP made the strong statement on Tuesday during the debate on the bill, the Sierra Leone Shipping Agency Act 2024 in the well of parliament.
Meanwhile, the MP thanked his colleagues who made salient contributions to the Bill and described same as progressive law.
He reflected on the importance of revenue mobilization and its positive impact on the state.
He made comparisons to other countries regarding the imposition of taxation for revenue generation. The Leader spoke about the reluctance of those who defer to pay tax and how revenue improves state development. He clarified and supported the opposition leader to consider the provision of the extant laws. Hon. Nyuma referred with concerns to some of the provisions in including the exemptions. He clarified and alluded to the position of the Financial Secretary on the Board, contrary to NRA.
He also alluded to the payments to be made into the consolidated fund as provided for in the Bill. He spoke on the importance of compliance in the Bill, in light of going into a joint venture with the private sector. He highlighted the penalties and made a vehement supporting stance for same. He referenced and decried clause 15, which asked for fifteen years of experience for someone to become the Director General. He commended the Bill with a specific mention of the defined roles of the Director General and Deputy. He suggested that the Director General of the Sierra Leone Harbour and Ports Authority be part of the Board. He however emphasized on the decline of donor support to poor nations, in tandem with the positivity and necessity of the Bill. The Leader of Government Business moved the motion for the Bill to be sent to the Legislative Committee for further scrutiny and was seconded by the acting opposition leader.
