In a significant development, the Executive Branch of Government has finally submitted the draft National Budget, totaling US$692 million, to the 55th National Legislature.
Previously, the Ministry of Finance had presented a budget of US$625 million to the legislature, which was subsequently returned to the Executive for realignment in accordance with President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST agenda.
However, on Thursday, March 14, 2024, the Finance Ministry, led by its Minister and Deputy Ministry for Administration, announced an adjusted amount of US$693 million to cover Fiscal Year 2024.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah assured the Executive that the House of Representatives would diligently scrutinize the budget, ensuring its alignment with critical sectors of the country.
This 2024 draft budget arrives after nearly three months of Government operation and at the time when members of the legislature are embarking on their first quarterly recess, with their return anticipated in May.
This, observers believed, it is likely that the president will recall them from their break for passage of the current budget which will result in the payment of extra salary and benefits.
By: Abraham Multimedia Journalist Kollie Jr.
Comments