‘Ministers must adhere to public financial regulations’

• Musokotwane warns breaches in procurement, contracting can lead to arrests

CHOMBA MUSIKA

Lusaka

MINISTER of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane has urged cabinet ministers to strictly observe public financial management regulations, warning that breaches in procurement, contracting and expenditure can lead to arrests and court cases.

Dr Musokotwane said ministers need a firm understanding of budget processes and public finance management to ensure accountability in their respective ministries.

He said this yesterday during an orientation meeting for ministers on the national budget and government development programmes.

The meeting followed Wednesday’s cabinet appointments and was convened to familiarise the new ministers with budgetary processes and Government’s development agenda.

Dr Musokotwane said the 2027 national budget is not the responsibility of his ministry alone, but a collective cabinet position that requires a unified approach.

“Cabinet must speak with one voice and have a unified position before the budget is taken to Parliament,” he said.

He said ministers are responsible for defending government policies and programmes in Parliament, particularly during committee sittings, where portfolio budgets undergo detailed scrutiny.

Dr Musokotwane urged ministers to understand every aspect of their budgets and demand clear explanations from permanent secretaries, directors and controlling officers.

“Every line will be queried and challenged,” he said.

Dr Musokotwane said ministers who wish to prioritise other programmes can propose reallocations within their approved budget ceilings through formal parliamentary amendments.

The minister said a technical session scheduled for today will further explain the structure of the national budget, including revenue projections and compulsory expenditure like salaries, debt servicing and social protection.

The session will also examine how the remaining discretionary funds are allocated among competing national priorities.

Dr Musokotwane said understanding the processes is essential for ministers to make informed decisions and account for public resources.

The 2027 national budget will be presented to Parliament on November 6, 2026. https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home