MPs Urged to Oversee Constituency Budget Implementation

The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to diligently track the implementation of the national budget in their respective constituencies. Musasizi stated that this effective oversight is a core constitutional mandate and a vital element in securing the trust of the electorate.

Speaking at an induction for MPs at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the Minister highlighted that Parliament’s role transcends mere budget approval. He stressed the importance of ensuring that allocated public funds translate into tangible improvements in service delivery for the populace.

“Budget approval is the beginning, not the end. Track whether funds reach the people they were intended for,” Musasizi advised, encouraging legislators to ensure value for money in projects directed to local governments. Drawing from his extensive experience as a former Member of Parliament, he recommended regular engagement with local government officials and community members to assess the progress of government-funded initiatives.

Musasizi indicated that much of the national budget is channeled to districts and sub-counties. He urged MPs to formally inquire from Chief Administrative Officers about project progress and to jointly visit project sites to verify their status, such as confirming the presence and engagement of teachers in schools.

This form of direct engagement, according to the Minister, significantly boosts accountability and deepens the connection between an MP and their constituents, ultimately aiding in their re-election prospects. He specifically mentioned the Parish Development Model as an area where MPs should engage directly with beneficiaries to understand fund utilization.

The Minister also alluded to plans to reinforce budget discipline by restricting supplementary expenditures to only unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances, in line with the Public Finance Management Act. During the session, concerns were raised by MPs regarding delays in budget document submissions by the Ministry, which hampers thorough scrutiny, and calls were made for stricter enforcement of deadlines. Other discussions included addressing double taxation and the necessity of investing in infrastructure for proposed industrial parks to drive economic growth.