Public Outcry as South Sudan's 2024-2025 Budget Passes with Tax Hikes, Igniting Concerns Over Rising Cost of Living

 

National Finance Hon. Marial Dongrin. 

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The recently passed national budget for South Sudan’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 has sparked a wave of public criticism, primarily due to the tax hikes imposed on various goods and services. 

The Four Point Two Trillion 4.2 trillion South Sudan pounds budget includes increased taxes, fees, and other levies, which many citizens and lawmakers argue will further burden people already struggling with economic hardship.

During a roundtable hosted by Eye Radio, citizens voiced frustration over the government's approach, calling the budget disconnected from the everyday realities of South Sudanese people. 

Many netizens expressed fears that higher taxes on essential goods will exacerbate the high cost of living. 

Rose Wasuk, one of the participants, warned that these tax hikes could “kill us” by adding further financial strain on families.

Concerns were also raised about the budget’s focus on revenue generation over addressing the basic needs of the public, such as healthcare, education, and support for local businesses. 

Mr. Abi Abdul-Karim pointed out that the budget overlooks civil servants, many of whom have gone unpaid for a year, as well as farmers and small-scale vendors. 

She warned that these tax increases could worsen issues like food insecurity, healthcare access, and even crime.

Calls for a transparent, inclusive budget process were echoed by many participants, who argued that citizens need to be more involved in decisions on resource allocation. 

Some attendees criticized the government’s lack of communication on budgetary matters, leaving ordinary South Sudanese feeling unheard and uninformed.

Despite public outcry, the budget is likely to be signed into law by President Kiir. 

Lawmakers and civic groups are advocating for a revised fiscal approach that emphasizes social welfare over aggressive revenue generation, hoping to relieve the economic strain on citizens while meeting critical public needs.