Ruling PNC is refusing to disclose MVR 49.8 billion 2024 budget expenditure details to the public and also asking for an additional 5 billion supplementary budget. Why is govenmnet want hiding from the Public ? only MVR 18 billion has been spent so far out of the MVR 49 billion budget, and it’s unclear what happened to the remaining MVR 31 billion
In a recent meeting of the Budget Committee of the People’s Majlis, lawmakers from the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) voted to keep details of the 2024 budget expenditure secret from the public. This decision raises serious questions about transparency and accountability in the government’s financial dealings.
During the Sunday meeting, a proposal was made by Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, the main opposition MP for Hanimaadhoo constituency, to disclose the details of the budget expenditure to date. His call for transparency was supported by Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, MP for South Hulhumalé. However, the proposal was rejected by the ruling PNC members and the leader of the Jumhooree Party (JP). Only three MDP parliamentarians and one MP from the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) voted in favor of the proposal.
The government submitted a supplementary budget of MVR 5.1 billion last week, claiming it was necessary to cover state expenses. This came after major projects were stalled, and the details of how the MVR 49 billion budget passed earlier this year were not disclosed.
Opposition members voiced their concerns, noting that only MVR 18 billion has been spent so far from the MVR 49 billion budget. This leaves MVR 31 billion unaccounted for, raising questions about the government’s intentions as it seeks an additional MVR 5 billion without clarifying the fate of the previous funds.
MP Mauroof Zakir from Kendhoo constituency pointed out that, despite the government’s request for more funds, there is little evidence of progress on any projects. He emphasized that this administration has spent more than any government in the country’s history, yet citizens see no tangible benefits.
Furthermore, although the law requires the publication of monthly state expenditure and revenue figures, the current administration under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has not released any state financial statements since June 20. This lack of transparency has drawn public criticism, and even the World Bank has expressed concerns over the government’s failure to provide necessary financial disclosures.
The refusal to disclose budget details undermines public trust and raises alarm bells about how taxpayer money is being managed. Citizens deserve to know how their government is spending their hard-earned money, and the continued secrecy only fuels further skepticism about the administration’s priorities and accountability.
