Tanzanian legislators on Acacia's $190 billion tax bill: 'Show us the money!'

Dodoma. Ubungo MP Mr Saed Kubenea (Chadema) has asked the government to report on the status of the gold/copper concentrate banned from exportation last year. 

Mr Kubenea who was contributing to the debate of the Ministry of Energy budget on Friday said it was unfortunate that the whole budget speech did not say anything about the mineral concentrates  and tax issues related to the saga. 

"What is exactly the status?  We want to know if mining companies still export concentrate and when will the smelter be built in the country," said Mr Kubenea. 

"We were given a lot of expectations and the Taxman said Acacia owes it $190 billion in taxes... Where is the money?" he said. 

The comment was also echoed by Mr Marwa Chacha Ryoba (Serengeti-Chadema) who also wanted to know the status of the ban. 

"I understand that Tundu Lissu was shot last year because of this issue. This was the main cause. He was accused of being a puppet for the mining firms. Where is the $190 billion taxes and $300 million promised by Acacia as a gesture of good faith?" said Mr Ryoba. 

Tanzania banned exportation of the gold/copper concentrate last year pending investigations over how the country benefited from the mineral resources. 

The move hit hard on Acacia which had been exporting the concentrate. 

Tanzania Revenue Authority also slapped the company with $190 billion in unpaid tax bills.