Lafitit: Protecting Elected Officials from Doubt is Essential to Strengthening Trust in Democracy and the Tax Reform Project is a Step Towards Comprehensive Reform
The Minister of Interior, Abdelouafi Laftit, strongly defended elected officials, asserting that they are "the backbone of democracy in our country," warning that any harm to their credibility or questioning their integrity could lead to a loss of trust in the democratic process and in elected institutions.
During a meeting of the Interior Committee at the House of Councillors dedicated to discussing the local taxation law, Laftit called on parliamentarians to propose effective mechanisms to protect elected officials from "malicious campaigns," especially those spread through social media, considering that these attacks tarnish the image of elected representatives and undermine trust in institutions.
The minister explained that the new law aims to modernize the legal framework for local taxation by simplifying procedures, improving legal texts, and developing a taxation system that ensures the enhancement of local authorities’ resources.
Laftit pointed out that one of the key components of the project is to unify the management of issuing and collecting local fees under one regional administration, which will contribute to improving the financial performance of municipalities and increasing collection efficiency, alongside providing necessary training for employees while preserving their job benefits.
The minister highlighted the importance of the tax imposed on undeveloped land, affirming that it serves as an effective mechanism to combat real estate speculation and expedite urban development. He added that assigning oversight of this task to governors and district heads is part of efforts to achieve tax justice and promote organized urban planning.
Laftit considered that this project paves the way for a "qualitative leap" in the field of local taxation and will strengthen the relationship between citizens and local authorities through a taxation system that is more just, effective, and responsive to local development needs.
