By EDDIE OSIFELO
GOVERNMENT could not bring the 2022 Appropriation Bill 2022 to pass in Parliament following the unrest in Honiara last Wednesday.
This is in accordance with Section 103 (1) of the Constitution to empower Minister of Finance to authorize the issue of money from the consolidated fund for purpose of meeting expenditure necessary to carry on public services at a level not exceeding the level of these services in the previous financial year, until the expiration of four months from the beginning of the financial year 2022 or the coming into operation of the 2022 Appropriation Bill 2022, whichever is the earlier.
Kuma said the budget documents have been finalised for printing when this unfortunate situation escalated prevented it.
He said the unlawful distraction of property has escalated so far and caused damage to public properties and business houses at Chinatown, Kukum and Ranadi.
“Further damage on businesses will have ramification on our domestic economy and altered expenditure mix on government finance.
“Government will run against time to pass the 2022 budget,” he said.
The Opposition has supported the government to pass the resolution.
Chairman of Public Accounts Committee, Douglas Ete urged the government to table the 2020 budget outcome and the 2021 mid term review to help the committee in its planning and analysis.
Minister Kuma said Cabinet has already approved both reports but due to administration issue has delayed their tabling in Parliament.
