Lawmakers Call for Debt Management Department Amid Lack of Transparency
The Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) lawmakers are pushing for the establishment of a Debt Management Department within the Ministry of Finance and Planning to ensure government loans are utilized for development purposes. This call to action arose during a discussion on a report from the Transitional States Forum, focusing on enhancing debt distress management in transitional states.
In response to the lack of transparency surrounding the country’s debt, Cueibet County SPLM IO lawmaker Juol Nhomngek criticized ministers for borrowing money without parliamentary approval. The issue of undisclosed debts has prompted concerns among members who are unaware of the total borrowing amount and the countries involved in lending.
MPs like Vosca Matine from Western Equatoria State emphasized the importance of parliamentary oversight on loan acquisitions, citing examples from neighboring countries like Uganda and Rwanda, which have dedicated commissions for debt management. The lawmakers stressed the need for accountability and proper budgeting of national finances.