National Assembly Members yesterday declined to take up a debate on the appropriation bill 2027 following its tabling by the minister of finance and economic affairs Seedy Keita.
Minister Keita presented the budget speech on Friday informing lawmakers that the government intends to spend D59.24 billion in 2027 out of a total revenue and grant projection of D56.94 billion.
The second reading was adjourned to yesterday Monday, to allow lawmakers to hold a debate on the allocations, the financial and economic state of the country and the general principles of government policy and administration as indicated in the bill.
However when the session was called to resume yesterday only 27 members were present forcing the presiding Speaker to delay opening sessions for about 45 minutes due to lack of a quorum.
Following the arrival of a few other lawmakers, the sitting proceeded with the Speaker opening the floor for intervention by Members who wished to take part in the debate, but no one came forward to debate.
Without a debate, the bill was approved for second reading and Finance Minister Seedy Keita was invited by the deputy Speaker Seedy Njie to close the session. Keita expressed profound gratitude to Members for their contribution to the bill.
