Lawyers Challenge Ministry of Finance VAT Directive

Lawyers in Ethiopia have formally challenged a directive issued by the Ministry of Finance requiring them to register for Value Added Tax (VAT). The legal professionals argue that the ministry exceeded its legal authority and violated constitutional rights and established administrative procedures by imposing this requirement. They are seeking a stay of enforcement, contending that immediate compliance would cause irreparable financial and administrative harm before the courts can determine the directive's legality. The group emphasizes that the current implementation timeline imposes an unfair burden on their profession. The case remains a significant point of contention regarding the regulation of professional services and tax compliance.