The country’s current budget estimate is Sh3.6 trillion, which comprises Sh2.2 trillion allocated to the national government, Sh986.1 billion for the Consolidated Fund Services, and Sh385 billion for the counties
Legislators have commenced the process of assessing the national budget for the 2023/24 Financial Year as the House begins scrutinizing proposed programs and projects from various state departments and agencies.
This process aligns with the provisions of Article 221 of the Constitution of Kenya, which mandates the submission of budget estimates to the National Assembly.
The recently tabled budget estimates, consisting of revenue and expenditure projections for the national government, have already been placed before the National Assembly.
According to Standing Order 235 of the National Assembly, the estimates are deemed committed to the respective Departmental Committees upon being presented to the House.
Under the current review process, each departmental committee will be tasked with the duty of considering, discussing and reviewing the estimates in accordance with its mandate.
The committees will then make recommendations to the Budget and Appropriations Committee of the National Assembly.
The country’s current estimated budget is Sh3.6 trillion, which comprises Sh2.2 trillion allocated to the national government, Sh986.1 billion for the Consolidated Fund Services, and Sh 385 billion for the county government’s equitable share.
As the budget review progresses, lawmakers are expected to pay particular attention to the sectoral budget breakdown, to ensure that resources are allocated in a manner that aligns with national priorities and promotes sustainable development.
Similarly, the MPs are also examining the proposed programs and projects within their respective committees, inviting accounting officers from the respective state departments and agencies to defend their budgets and justify the allocation of funds.
This assessment is expected to help guarantee transparency, accountability and prudent management of public funds.
MPs with the support of experts from the Parliamentary Budget Office are also set to scrutinise the proposed expenditures to ensure transparency, accountability, and the effective utilization of public funds.
The review of the budget estimates represents a crucial aspect of parliamentary oversight and democratic governance. By thoroughly examining each department’s allocation, the Committees of the National Assembly aim to make evidence-based recommendations to the Budget and Appropriations Committee.
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