IF I WERE Tom Malata

Commissioner General (CG) of the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), I would ensure fairness in the way the public tax collector pounces on those alleged to be evading duty regardless of their political affiliation.

If I were bwana Malata, I would always strive to safeguard my organisation from political interference.

If I were the chief tax collector, I would appreciate that reports of my institution being used to persecute people perceived to be critical of the powers that be, including politicians Louis Ngalande and Noel Masangwi who are supporting Vice-President Saulos Chilima’s campaign for the presidency, put into question the credibility and reputation of MRA and its management.

Oh yes, Mr CG, while pouncing on tax evaders deserves no honeymoon, the timing of the hardline stance against people who speak against President Peter Mutharika’s re-election ambition  raises eyebrows. Did MRA really have to wait for Ngalande and Masangwi to cross paths with the President to swoop on them?

How I wish I were Malata because I would realise the need for my institution to take a firm line and enforce all tax laws regardless of whether the defaulter is in good books with the governing party or in opposition. In all fairness, MRA should not be seen as taking sides.

But I am just Garry.