Transparency and accountability are major issues for any government, and the Minister of Finance, Doudou Fwamba Likunde Li-Botayi, recently defended with aplomb the Draft Law on the Accountability of the Finance Law 2023 in the National Assembly. This initiative, approved during a meeting of the Council of Ministers, demonstrates the government’s commitment to rigorous management of public finances and unfailing transparency.
During the debates in the National Assembly, Minister Fwamba demonstrated great mastery of the issues, answering the questions of the national deputies with clarity and precision. He stressed that the concerns expressed by the elected representatives were primarily aimed at guaranteeing the well-being of the Congolese people and realizing the vision of the Head of State Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo.
The discussions highlighted several crucial themes, including the instability of the macroeconomic framework, challenges related to tax revenue collection, investment spending, payment of domestic debt and budget support from the World Bank. The Minister addressed the impacts of the war in the East of the country and the military conflict in Ukraine on the national economy, while highlighting the measures taken to overcome these challenges.
Regarding tax revenue, the Minister explained the reasons for the decline recorded by highlighting the provisional payments from the previous year and the need to improve the tax culture of micro-enterprises. He also reassured the deputies on the government’s efforts to maintain investment spending, particularly in infrastructure development and agricultural support projects.
Regarding budget support from the World Bank, the Minister assured that all necessary steps were underway, which should help to strengthen investments in the country. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparently and equitably resolve domestic debt, highlighting the progress made in stabilizing the exchange rate and controlling inflation through effective coordination of monetary and fiscal policies.
In conclusion, the Minister stressed the importance of this accountability exercise to ensure responsible management of public finances and pursue the country’s economic development. The government’s commitment and determination to address current economic challenges are essential to ensure a prosperous future for Congo and its citizens.