By Joseph Momoh, D.S. Reporter
In a recent parliamentary session, Aaron Aruna Koroma, the Deputy Leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), raised significant concerns regarding the supplementary budget presented by Finance Minister Sheku Fantamadi Bangura. Koroma highlighted a dramatic increase in funding for the Chief Minister’s Office, led by David Moininia Sengeh, which escalated from 21 million to 35 million leones.
Koroma demanded clarity on the reasoning behind this substantial budget hike, particularly questioning whether these additional funds would support essential infrastructure projects such as school construction. He stated, “If the economy is truly improving, ordinary citizens should feel the benefits, especially through increased wages.” He underscored the ongoing economic challenges, noting that the cost of basic food items, like rice, remains high at 5 leones.
Further, Koroma criticized the supplementary budget for its apparent neglect of the agricultural sector, warning that this could have detrimental effects on other critical areas, including education. He pointed out that numerous Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) are still awaiting approved funding from Parliament.
In response, Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma, Leader of Government Business, urged Koroma to support his claims with specific evidence rather than making general accusations. Nyuma defended the government’s financial management, noting a reduction in inflation to 7.1%, a significant improvement from previous administrations.
Speaker of Parliament Hon. Sengepoh Solomon Thomas suggested that Finance Minister Bangura provide a comprehensive response to the opposition’s concerns. In support of the government’s stance, Hon. Mustapha Musa Sellu attributed the drop in inflation to disciplined fiscal policies.
Minister Bangura addressed the budget increase, explaining that it is tied to the ongoing Constitutional Review process. He assured Parliament that he would take the opposition’s feedback into account in the next budget cycle.
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