Amélia Muendane’s active participation in partisan political activities as President of the Mozambique Tax Authority (AT) and a member of the Frelimo party’s political commission raises serious ethical and legal questions that cannot be ignored. As a state entity responsible for implementing tax and customs policies, the AT plays a pivotal role in collecting taxes and contributions from all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.
Law No. 1/2006, which establishes the AT, clearly stipulates that this state entity must operate in a non-partisan manner, ensuring transparency, impartiality, and fairness in dealing with taxpayers. AT leaders are equated with state agents and are required to refrain from partisan political activities in accordance with existing legislation.
Furthermore, Mozambique’s Political Parties Law explicitly prohibits certain holders of public office from engaging in active partisan political activities. This restriction aims to preserve the impartiality and integrity of public institutions, preventing any partisan influence over their activities.
Amélia Muendane’s active participation in partisan political activities while holding a leadership position in the AT constitutes a blatant violation of these laws and ethical principles. This seriously compromises the independence and neutrality of the AT, undermining its ability to act impartially and fairly in carrying out its responsibilities.
In addition to ethical and legal concerns, Amélia Muendane’s participation in partisan political activities also raises concerns about potential risks of corruption and illicit party financing. The intertwining of political and administrative interests can pave the way for unethical practices, nepotism, and undue favoritism, further eroding the integrity of the AT and undermining public trust in state institutions.
In light of these serious concerns, it is imperative that competent authorities, including the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Central Public Ethics Commission, immediately investigate this situation and take concrete and uncompromising measures to ensure that the AT remains non-partisan and fulfills its mandate in an ethical and transparent manner. Citizens’ trust in the integrity of public institutions depends on these institutions’ ability to operate free from external political influences and to act in the public interest.
Ultimately, the legality of Amélia Muendane’s political activity in the AT must be scrutinized (and accountability assigned) to preserve the integrity and credibility of this important institution of the Mozambican state. Maintaining the impartiality and independence of the AT is essential to ensuring fair, transparent, and effective tax administration that serves the needs and interests of all Mozambican citizens.