Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has called on the Government to provide clarification regarding the unspent $246 million from the national budget. He emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in governance, urging Parliament to be informed about the reasons behind the underutilization of funds. This is especially critical given that national budgets are legislated by lawmakers.
“Should portions of the budget go unused by the conclusion of the financial year, it is imperative that this House understands the reasons behind it. We need to discuss adjustments in governance processes to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” Seruiratu stated, stressing that any underutilization linked to poor leadership should prompt corrective actions.
To enhance oversight, he proposed establishing a Parliamentary Select Committee dedicated to monitoring budget usage. This committee could significantly improve government efficiency by ensuring that allocated funds are properly utilized. He also reiterated the necessity for accountability agencies, such as the Office of the Auditor General and the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption, to report directly to Parliament to reinforce the democratic framework.
In response, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad noted that there is still time for budget execution within the financial year and that quarterly expenditure reports are being made available. He acknowledged Seruiratu’s concerns, explaining that fluctuations in budget utilization can occur due to unforeseen challenges, including weather-related issues and external factors that may hinder the initiation and completion of projects.
This debate highlights the growing scrutiny of government financial management. Similar concerns have been echoed by independent Members of Parliament, including Jone Usamate, who pointed out inefficiencies in project implementation and underspent budgets. He indicated that the slow pace of ministry functions directly affects the quality of life for citizens.
As this dialogue continues, it is crucial for the government to articulate how it intends to tackle these budgetary issues. Such discussions could lead to improvements in public finance management, fostering increased trust and efficacy in government operations. A commitment to building a more efficient governance framework is vital, not only for meeting current commitments but also for ensuring greater accountability in Fiji’s public service delivery going forward.
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