CAPITOL HILL, MONROVIA: The House of Representatives has passed the 2025 Draft National Budget, amounting to United States Dollars 880 million, following strict scrutiny and adjustments during budget hearings. The budget now awaits deliberation and concurrence by the Liberian Senate.
The National 2025 Budget was initially submitted by the Executive at US$851 million, the proposed budget was increased by US$29 million after detailed reviews by the House’s Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance.
The adjustments aim to address critical areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security.
Essential Adjustments in the Budget
During the hearings, lawmakers identified additional revenue streams and reassessed expenditure priorities to increase the proposed amount.
Maryland County Electoral District #1 Representative P. Mike Jurry who is Chairperson of the Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance while briefing reporters,
“The additional US$29 million ensures that more resources are directed to critical sectors that impact the lives of ordinary Liberians. This budget reflects our commitment to equitable national development.”
Senate’s Role and Potential Deliberations
The Senate is now tasked with reviewing the House-passed budget. While it is expected that the Senate will maintain key allocations, there remains the possibility of further adjustments.
Should the Senate approve a figure different from the US$880 million passed by the House, a conference committee comprising members from both chambers will be convened to reconcile the differences.
Public Expectations and Concerns
The 2025 Draft Budget has sparked considerable public interest, with many citizens calling for greater accountability and transparency in its execution.
ERA NEWS While speaking to some citizens after the passage of the budget, Samuel Nimely, a business owner in Monrovia expressed cautious positiveness, saying, “I hope this budget brings real changes in schools and hospitals. We’ve heard promises before, but this time, we need to see action.”
Others have raised concerns about the government’s capacity to meet revenue projections, particularly given the challenges in tax collection and economic stability.
Government’s Development Agenda
The proposed budget aligns with the government’s “ARREST” agenda. Underscoring investments in Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Economy, Security and Tourism.
However, analysts note that the success of the budget depends on effective implementation and the prevention of corruption.
Next Steps
The Senate’s deliberations are expected to begin in the coming days, with the aim of finalizing the national budget before the end of the fiscal year. The passage of the budget by both chambers is crucial for the smooth functioning of government operations in 2025.
The nation awaits the outcome of Senate discussions, hoping that the finalized budget will address pressing issues and set Liberia on a path of sustained economic growth and development.