Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
SPEAKER of the National Assembly Advocate Jacob Mudenda says continuous capacity building is essential in equipping legislators with the skills required to effectively analyse the national budget and ensure it responds to Zimbabwe’s development priorities.
Speaking during a budget analysis seminar for Members of Parliament, Advocate Mudenda said legislators must have a thorough understanding of the budget process to ensure public resources are allocated equitably and directed towards improving the lives of citizens.
“In the process of analysis, it is important that the budget addresses the question of the poor, areas where development appears to be lacking in terms of roads, health delivery services, education and water supplies. It is critical that Members of Parliament understand the dynamics regarding what the budget ought to address.
“They are also looking at the issue of equity and the question of proportional disbursement of the allocated funds so that every corner of the country is taken care of under the principle of proportionality in development. It is important, therefore, that Members of Parliament are guided by the constitutional mandate they must follow under Section 118(3) of the Constitution, as well as the Public Finance Management Act, particularly on the issue of demanding monthly, quarterly and annual reports,” he said.
Advocate Mudenda noted that Parliament’s oversight role extends beyond approving the national budget, emphasising the need for legislators to monitor the implementation of budgeted programmes and ensure that public funds are utilised efficiently, transparently and in line with national development objectives.
Parliament has been conducting budget analysis seminars involving various portfolio committees to strengthen legislators’ capacity to scrutinise budget proposals and monitor public expenditure.
The initiative is aimed at enhancing Parliament’s oversight role in support of national development programmes.
The seminars also seek to ensure that Members of Parliament are better equipped to assess budget allocations, promote accountability in public finance management and advocate for equitable distribution of national resources across all provinces.
