THE Opposition Group has reminded the government to table the 2017 Annual budget in time.
This came after the government failed to stick to the time schedule of the Public Financial Management Act.
Opposition leader, Jeremiah Manele told the opening session of Parliamenton Tuesday that part 6 of the Public Financial Management Act, clause 48, states that the national budget must lay two months before the commencement of the financial year.
That was 30th of October.
Mr Manele said the Public Accounts Committee is still to scrutinize the budget.
Furthermore, he said part 6, clause 45 of the Act requires the Minister of Development Planning and Aid Coordination to table the officially published details with respect to the government Mid Term Development plan, at least three months before the start of the financial year.
“This is still to be done.”
The opposition leader added that under section 52 of the Act, the 2016 Mid-Year Review must be tabled in Parliament not later than seven months.
He said the government is behind schedule because it should come before Parliament.
Independent Leader, Dr Derek Sikua has supported the sentiments raised by the Opposition Leader.
Parliament will resume on 14th November after Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare moved a Special Adjournment Motion, Tuesday.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
