Roads Safety and Electricity Authorities Offices Closed Over Unpaid Taxes

The Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (NRA) temporarily closed the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) and Sierra Leone Roads Safety Authority (SLRSA) facilities on Thursday morning due to outstanding tax obligations.

Staff were evacuated from both EDSA's headquarters in Freetown and the SLRSA premises. The NRA stated that the closures were due to substantial tax arrears and followed a due process.

EDSA reportedly owes NLe 328,396,305.03, while SLRSA owes NLe 15,336,611.76. Both facilities will remain closed until the tax debts are resolved.

The NRA stated that the closures aim to ensure fiscal accountability and promote transparency in public fund management, urging all institutions to fulfill their tax obligations. The closures are expected to impact the energy and road safety sectors and spark discussions about fiscal discipline and accountability within the public service.

No official response has been issued by either EDSA or SLRSA. Attempts to reach their respective management teams for comment are ongoing.