Speaker Thomas Issues Strict Directive for MDAs on Budget Debate

On the, 21st November 2024 – At the start of the First Allotted Day of the debate on the 2025 National Budget, Rt. Hon. Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas issued a stern warning to all Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He emphasized that beginning tomorrow, 22nd November 2024, all vote controllers in various MDAs must be present in Parliament to witness the ongoing budget debate.

Speaker Thomas stressed that any MDA that fails to send a representative to the debate will face severe consequences, including the withholding of their budget allocations.

“We are serious about this,” Speaker Thomas asserted. “If any MDA fails to attend the debate on the 2025 National Budget, the House of Parliament will have no choice but to withhold their budget.”

He further clarified that from tomorrow, the Second Allotted Day of the debate, Parliament would carry out a roll call of all MDAs present, and punitive actions would follow for those who do not comply. He emphasized that each MDA must send representatives at least at the rank of Director or Deputy Director, ensuring the seriousness of the participation.

“We will do a roll call on all MDAs present tomorrow,” Speaker Thomas reiterated. “So, all MDAs should be present throughout the five-day debate on the National Budget,” he urged.

This warning reflects the Speaker’s determination to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are actively engaged in the debate, which is crucial for the effective allocation and management of public funds in the 2025 fiscal year.