By Zweli Martin Dlamini

MBABANE: Evidence has emerged how the Eswatini Revenue Service( ERS) imposes heavy penalties that result to the collapse of businesses particularly within the Small and Medium Enterprise(SME) sector.

Bio Medics(PTY)LTD, a company allegedly owned by Banele Khoza is owing the revenue service Eighty-eight thousand, eight hundred Rands(R88,800.00), however, the ERS is now demanding over Three hundred thousand Rands(R300,000.00) after imposing penalties.

“Final letter of demand for the outstanding tax debt amounting to the tune of E306,764.82. The above matter refers. A letter of demand dated 29th November 2022, in relation to the outstanding tax debt was forwarded to you,we however, have not received a response from you as to how you intend liquidating the tax debt mentioned above. Please note that this is now the final letter of demand, and you are advised that should you fail to liquidate the debt within five(5) working days from receipt of this letter the matter will become referred to our Legal Department for our legal enforcement process to take over and recover tax due,” reads a letter signed by Sifiso Dlamini on behalf of the Revenue Service Commissioner General Brightwell Nkambule.

Reached for comments, the businessman Banele Khoza confirmed the matter but declined to comment further saying he doesn’t discuss his tax issues with the media.

“It’s true, but my main worry is that how did you access such private tax documents?”said the businessman briefly.

Reached for comments, Vusi Dlamini,the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) Spokesperson said it was against the law to discuss taxpayers issues with the media.

“We acknowledge receipt of your query. Firstly,  let us mention that unfortunately the ERS  cannot discuss specific taxpayers affairs in public space as this would be against the country’s Laws on confidentiality or taxpayers information.However, we can give just the principle: At any given point some of the taxpayers do not pay their tax debts on time and the Tax Legislation provides for imposition of penalties and interest. Usually these would escalate to higher than the principal if the taxpayer fails to clear their debt on time. This is aligned to international best practice and is meant to deter those who do not comply,” said the ERS Corporate Affairs Director.