Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-17 21:23:39
The Boakai administration has finally submitted its first draft national budget for the fiscal period of 2024 to the House of Representatives of the 55th Legislature. The total budget amounts to US$692 million, a crucial step in the nation’s fiscal planning and governance. This submission comes after much delay, with Finance Minister Boimah Kamara and his three deputies presenting the draft budget.
The delay in submitting the budget raised concerns, with Representative Moima Briggs Mensah questioning the reasons behind the delay without formal communication from the Executive. She emphasized the importance of aligning the budget with President Boakai’s vision of “ARREST” (Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism) to drive the country’s development. The House of Representatives voted to send back the budget to the Executive for adjustments to meet the President’s 100-day deliverables and development goals.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah received the budget on behalf of the House of Representatives during a handover ceremony, highlighting the importance of crafting a budget that prioritizes the needs of ordinary citizens. The budget review by the Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance will take place during the House’s first-quarter break, reflecting the aspirations and concerns of Liberians from all walks of life.
The submission of the draft national budget demonstrates the government’s commitment to responsible financial management and inclusive development. The House of Representatives adjourned its first quarter of the first Session, with Deputy Speaker Fallah reporting on the legislative activities during this period. Despite the challenges, three bills were passed, including one executive bill, showcasing the commitment of legislators to meet the needs of the Liberian people.
The first quarter break will extend from March 14 to the second Friday of May 2024, allowing legislators to regroup and prioritize the interests of the Liberian people. Deputy Speaker Fallah commended his colleagues for their efforts in facilitating community development and social cohesion through various interactions. The focus remains on meeting the needs of the people and demonstrating good practices in governance.
Overall, the submission of the national budget for 2024 marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s fiscal planning and governance. The government’s commitment to responsible financial management and inclusive development is evident, with a focus on aligning budget allocations with the President’s development goals and the needs of ordinary citizens. The House of Representatives continues to prioritize the interests of the Liberian people, ensuring that legislative efforts contribute to the nation’s progress and prosperity.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
