In a bold and impassioned address to the National Assembly on Monday, the Kiang West rep critiqued The Gambia's fiscal trajectory, asserting that the nation's development cannot be 75% reliant on loans.
As the legislative house delved into the 2024 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure, Ceesay's touching observations unmasked and laid bare the shortcomings of the 2022-2023 budget.
Ceesay, arguing that the nation’s budgets have not been serving their purposes, lamented: "When examining our budget for 2022-2023, it is apparent that it is not serving its purpose. The development of our country cannot be 75% dependent on loans."
This stark revelation calls attention to the urgent need for diversified revenue streams and sustainable financial practices to ensure the long-term prosperity of The Gambia.
The member of the National Assembly did not stop there, he also directed a critical gaze at the allocation of funds within the budget. He expressed deep concern over the delayed disbursement of 10 million dalasis earmarked for the Ministry of Water Resources.
"It's disheartening that the 10 million allocated to the Ministry of Water Resources was not disbursed until recently, while our people have continued to suffer and cry out for water," Ceesay declared, stressing the pressing need for efficient resource allocation to address the basic needs of the citizens.
In a similar move on Tuesday, the NAM has proposed a reduction in the travelling allowance from D66 million to D40 million. However, the outcome of the vote revealed a division among the members, with 26 voting to retain the initial allocation and 9 casting their ballots against it.
As the debate unfolds, all eyes are on the National Assembly, with high expectations for a constructive dialogue that will shape The Gambia's financial landscape and pave the way for a more resilient and equitable future.
