Delay in presenting mini-budget: Financial and governance realities – Prof. John Gatsi

In an election year, the full budget for the upcoming fiscal year is typically not presented until after the elections to ensure the new government has the mandate to govern and spend.

However, expenditure on statutory obligations, such as public sector wages, debt services, and other strategic expenses, must be approved by Parliament before December 31, 2024.

With Parliament currently, in recess, the President may call an emergency session to present and approve the mini-budget before the end of the year. If this approval is not obtained, a government shutdown could occur, affecting all government institutions, including public services and education.

The new government will be able to present the mini-budget starting January 7, 2025, with the Vice President possibly making history as the first to present it to Parliament.