𝗧𝘂𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟳, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

The National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee yesterday met the Auditor-General, FCPA, Nancy Gathungu to discuss the proposed expenditure ceilings in the 2024 Budget Policy Statement (BPS) amongst other issues.

In a session chaired by the Committee Vice Chairperson, Hon. Mary Emaase (Teso South) the Auditor General, FCPA outlined budgetary challenges the main one being the shortfall in Personnel Emoluments.

“Inadequacy in Personnel Emoluments Budget allocation implies that my office will not be able to meet its obligations towards payment of staff salaries and allowances in the FY 2024/25,” FCPA Gathungu said.

Members expressed concern over the escalating pending bills within Ministries, Departments and State Agencies (MDAs). They urged the Auditor General to provide actionable recommendations to the Government on how to effectively address this issue.

Additionally, Members sought clarity on the interpretation of Article 223 concerning Budget execution.

In response, the Auditor-General urged the Committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the Public Finance Management (PFM) Act, emphasizing the need to establish criteria for the National Treasury & Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary's powers to prevent fund diversion, which contributes to the accumulation of pending bills.

Hon. Dr.  John Chikati (Tongaren) asked the Auditor General to present fresh recommendations to the Budget Committee instead of submitting last year’s findings, underscoring the importance of proactive measures in tackling financial challenges.

In her closing remarks, Hon. Emaase, the Committee Vice-chairperson lauded the OAG for surpassing targets in the previous financial year, highlighting the importance of effective fiscal management in achieving government objectives.