CFSC demands MPs consider inclusive budget

Malawi-The Centre For Social Concern (CFSC) has called on members of parliament to prioritize an inclusive budget during the upcoming 2023–2024 national budget session to promote social and economic growth in Malawi, writes Judgment Katika.

In a media briefing held on Monday in Lilongwe, CFSC Executive Director Father James Ngahy emphasized the need for a budget that is true and realistic for the citizens of Malawi, most of whom are living in absolute poverty.

He stated that the budget must necessarily be inclusive to raise the standard of living of Malawians.

"We believe that this budget will address the social and economic challenges we are facing, such as the high cost of living, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services, including water and sanitation, that are hindering the fight against cholera, just to mention a few," said Ngahy.

"This budget should reflect a progressive vision and not simply business as usual. The standard of living of Malawians should not continue to be the same as it was in the last financial budget."

Ngahy further noted that the national budget must be designed to set Malawi on a trajectory towards the achievement of the nation's aspirations by 2063, and must accelerate implementation towards wealth creation, job creation, and food security.

He also raised concerns about the widespread corruption in Malawi, stating that it is a major obstacle to the country's development.

He urged lawmakers to empower citizens to demand transparency and accountability in accordance with the revised Public Finance Management Act.

Transparency and accountability must be promoted from the office of the president to government officials on how funds are being spent on external trips, he added.

The CFSC is a faith-based organization founded in 2022 with the aim of promoting research and action on social issues linking Christian faith and social justice and transforming the unjust structures in Malawian society through research and advocacy to ensure a sustained change in policies for the betterment of all in line with their human dignity.

The proposal from CFSC comes as the Minister of Finance is expected to present the 2023–2024 national budget in the upcoming Parliament session.

With the call for an inclusive budget, the CFSC hopes that the Malawian government will prioritize the welfare of its citizens in its economic policies.