**The pressing need to consolidate public finances in the Democratic Republic of Congo**
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a major challenge: the management of its public finances. A crucial question that concerns the Center for Research in Public Finance and Local Development (Crefdl), which recently called on Prime Minister Judith Suminwa to take urgent measures. This request echoes a series of concerns regarding transparency, legality and good management of the country’s financial resources.
Crefdl warns against certain practices such as the “provision of funds”, which according to it, must be strictly regulated by law and used only for expenditure in accordance with the revised Procedural Manual and the public expenditure circuit. He also insists on the need to eliminate opaque budget lines, like the “Special Intervention Fund”, which he considers to be a hidden facet of operating expenses.
Another concern raised by Crefdl is the excessive lifestyle of the Congolese government, comprising no less than 54 members, including 6 deputy prime ministers and 10 ministers of state. A workforce considered excessive which risks compromising the budgetary appropriations intended for investment projects in the provinces. The budget overruns observed in recent years highlight the need for more rigorous and transparent management of the country’s financial resources.
Furthermore, Crefdl calls for a more judicious allocation of resources, suggesting that funds allocated to institutions such as the National Assembly, the Senate and the General Inspectorate of Finance could be reallocated to concrete development projects, such as the construction of essential road infrastructure. This reorientation of funds would make it possible to meet the priority needs of the population and promote the economic development of the country.
In addition, the fight against corruption and the promotion of grassroots development are major issues that Prime Minister Judith Suminwa must take into account. Transparency and integrity in the management of public finances are essential conditions to guarantee the well-being and prosperity of the Congolese population. It is therefore imperative that concrete measures be taken to consolidate public finances and straighten out the country’s budgetary management.
In conclusion, Crefdl’s call for an in-depth reform of public finance management in the DRC is an invitation to action and responsibility. Respect for legality, transparency and good governance must guide the action of the Congolese authorities to ensure a better and more prosperous future for all the country’s citizens..
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