MPs question revenue, vacancies and GEBE in 2027 budget debate

Members of Parliament questioned Government’s revenue projections, staffing plans and delivery of public services during Central Committee handling of the draft 2027 national budget on Monday 28 September. The questions covered food prices, utility bills, housing, healthcare, roads, public safety, taxation and government-owned companies.

MP Dimar Labega focused on the budget’s projected Cg 8 million surplus. He asked whether projected expenditure includes salaries for hundreds of vacant government positions expected to be filled, and whether the surplus would remain if those posts are filled. MP Lyndon Lewis asked Government to explain a projected Cg 19 million increase in tax revenue, including the amounts expected from economic growth and tax collection.

Lewis also questioned vacancies across Government, including in the Fire Department, public education, the Inspectorate and Justice, and asked which services are delayed by unfilled posts. He sought details on Tax Administration modernisation, outstanding taxes and Government’s financial exposure to TelEm. MP Darryl York also sought information on TelEm’s restructuring, governance, financial performance and the absence of a permanent chief executive officer.

MP Egbert Doran asked for updates on BTP’s review of GEBE’s fuel-clause calculations, electricity and water meter testing, and the Government’s stated target of 1,200 homes. MP Francisco Lacroes raised questions about budget risks, payment arrears and financial reporting to Parliament. MP Veronica Jansen-Webster questioned personnel expenditure of about Cg 288 million, as well as tax collection, consultancy spending and planned road works.