MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Amara Konneh, a prominent figure in Liberian politics, has announced his support for a significant increase in the national budget. In a statement yesterday, Konneh, Senator of Gbarpolu County revealed that he voted ‘YES’ for a $748,859,827 national budget envelope, which represents a $46,451,000 increase over President Boakai’s budget proposals submitted to the Legislature on March 28, 2024.
The Senate’s vote on the budget resulted in reductions in allocations in public administration by $19 million, including the Legislature. However, there were increases in funding to several sectors, with notable figures allocated to Municipal Government, Transparency & Accountability, Security & Rule of Law, Health, Education, Social Development, Energy & Environment, Agriculture, Infrastructure & Basic Services, and Industry & Commerce.
Senator Konneh’s vote was contingent on several conditions to ensure a transparent budget execution and discourage unauthorized spending outside of the approved budget. These conditions include ensuring that the final budget law reflects contingent revenues and expenditures, submitting a reconciled first-quarter balance of the Consolidated Account, managing the Deficit Pool Fund transparently, subjecting the management of County Funds to banking rules and financial audits, and implementing the Small Business Law Act effectively.
Additionally, the Gbarpolu County lawmaker emphasized that no funds should be expended on any programs, projects, or items of expenditure that were not included in the approved appropriations without Legislative approval. He also highlighted the importance of proper oversight and management of spending entities’ budgets to prevent illegal pass-throughs of unapproved resources.
The former Finance Minister acknowledged that the increase in the national budget gives President Boakai more resources and spending authority to fund his administration’s programs. However, he emphasized the importance of transparency in the implementation of the budget and urged for the details to be published for all to see.
In conclusion, Senator Konneh’s support for the budget increase reflects his commitment to ensuring that Liberia’s resources are used efficiently and effectively for the benefit of all citizens.
