The three-year statutory tax assessment exercise has officially commenced in panga Krim Chiefdom, Pujehun District, with the Regent Chief, Alhaji Ibrahim Moyamba Koroma, assuring residents that the process will be conducted in a free, fair, transparent and peaceful manner.

The exercise, which began with stakeholder engagements in Wombey and Baiyama communities, is being carried out in line with the Local Government Act of 2004, which requires chiefdom authorities to conduct tax assessments every three years under the supervision of the District Officer or his or her representative.

Addressing community stakeholders, Regent Chief Alhaji Ibrahim Moyamba Koroma thanked residents for taking time out of their busy schedules to attend the meetings, describing their participation as a demonstration of commitment to the development and unity of the chiefdom.

He explained that the tax assessment is an important administrative exercise aimed at updating the chiefdom’s taxpayer register and determining those eligible to participate in future Paramount Chieftaincy elections.

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According to him, the exercise will also help identify individuals who should be removed from the register due to death, ill health or other legitimate reasons, while ensuring that newly qualified taxpayers are captured.

The Regent Chief stressed that his administration is committed to upholding integrity throughout the process.

“I fear God and I will never mortgage my integrity for anyone,” he declared. “This tax assessment will be conducted fairly, transparently and peacefully in the interest of every resident of panga Krim Chiefdom.”

He reminded residents that payment of tax is both a civic responsibility and a legal obligation, urging all eligible taxpayers and tribal authorities to cooperate fully with the assessment team. He emphasized that his foremost responsibility as Regent Chief is to maintain peace and unity across the chiefdom.

Speaking on behalf of the people of Wombey, Town Chief Mahmoud Sheriff expressed appreciation to the chiefdom authorities for engaging local communities before the commencement of the exercise.

He acknowledged that there had been concerns and misinformation surrounding the process but said the explanations provided by the Regent Chief had restored confidence among residents.
He pledged the community’s full cooperation and prayed for God’s continued guidance, protection and wisdom for the Regent Chief as he leads the chiefdom.
Similarly, the Town Chief of Baiyama, Simah Gbonda, welcomed the visiting delegation and commended the leadership of Regent Chief Alhaji Ibrahim Moyamba Koroma.

He assured the authorities that the people of Baiyama would fully support the exercise and work closely with officials to ensure a smooth, peaceful and successful tax assessment.

“I have no iota of doubt in the leadership of the Regent Chief,” he said, adding that the community remains committed to maintaining peace throughout the exercise.
The Chiefdom Treasurer and Clerk, Mr. Bah, later presented the updated list of taxpayers and explained the procedures for tax collection, urging residents to honour their tax obligations promptly to facilitate efficient record keeping and support the  development of the chiefdom.

The tax assessment exercise is expected to continue across the various towns and sections of panga Krim Chiefdom in the coming days as authorities work to update the chiefdom’s tax register in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act.