Exclusive: CSOs Rally for Excise Tax Bill to be Passed by Parliament

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are urging parliament to pass the Excise Tax Bill, which has been pending for a while now.

The bill proposes to increase the excise taxes on certain goods, such as tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks, in order to generate revenue for the government and discourage excessive consumption of these products.

CSOs believe that passing this bill will have several positive impacts on the society, including improving public health, reducing the burden on the healthcare system, and providing much-needed revenue for the government.

The increase in excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol will discourage people from consuming these products, which will in turn reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs are responsible for over 70% of deaths globally, and reducing their prevalence is a top priority for governments worldwide.

Furthermore, the increase in revenue generated from excise taxes will help fund public healthcare initiatives, which are currently underfunded in many countries. This will help reduce the burden on healthcare systems and ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare services.

Additionally, the revenue generated can be used to fund other important social programs, such as education and infrastructure development.

Moreover, CSOs are also urging parliament to ensure that the revenue generated from excise taxes is used in a transparent and accountable manner. This means that the government should be clear about how the revenue is being used and ensure that it is being used for the intended purposes.

This will help build trust between the government and citizens and ensure that the public understands the benefits of paying excise taxes.

In conclusion, passing the Excise Tax Bill is an important step towards improving public health, reducing the burden on healthcare systems, and providing much-needed revenue for the government.

CSOs are urging parliament to pass the bill and ensure that the revenue generated is used in a transparent and accountable manner. By doing so, governments can create a healthier, more prosperous, and more equitable society for all citizens.