June 3, 2025
The National Revenue Authority (NRA) and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration and transparency following a productive high-level meeting at the NRA Headquarters today.
The discussions addressed recent concerns arising from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) publication, which listed CRS among entities with alleged outstanding tax liabilities.
NRA Commissioner General Jeneba J. Bangura emphasized the Authority's dedication to accuracy and taxpayer rights, stating: "While we respect the PAC's constitutional oversight role, the NRA is committed to ensuring all taxpayers related issues receive due process. We regret any unintended reputational impact on CRS, a valued partner in Sierra Leone's development, and will strengthen protocols to prevent similar occurrences, she continued ."Mrs. Bangura further underscored the NRA's collaborative approach, reinstating that The productive dialogue with CRS exemplifies how institutions can work together to resolve discrepancies, adding that Moving forward, they will engage directly with affected organizations before public disclosures to uphold fairness and trust.
As per the formal letter addressed to the PAC Chairman, from the CRS Country Representative, Ms. Jeanne Ella Andrianambinina, which was also referenced during the meeting, the country representative expressed deep concern and dissatisfaction over the publication of an alleged SLE628,774.40 tax liability, noting that it had already submitted sworn evidence of payment to Parliament. Based on this, the NRA confirmed that supporting documentation, including ITAS lodgments, bank receipts, and statements, has since been submitted to the NRA to facilitate reconciliation.
During the meeting , both parties welcomed idea of open dialogue strengthening enhanced institutional cooperation, and improved communication, to promote voluntary tax compliance.
CRS commended the NRA for its responsiveness while the NRA expressed appreciation for CRS’s longstanding contributions to Sierra Leone.
The NRA remains committed to fostering trust and transparency with all taxpayers and stakeholders, ensuring a fair and efficient tax administration system.