Sanniquellie: The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), has launched the 2025 National Budget Outreach and FY2026 Pre-Budget Consultation in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, as part of its Open Budget Initiative (OBI). The initiative, which kicked off on Saturday, aims to strengthen fiscal transparency and public participation in the national budget process.
According to African Press Organization, the initiative provides citizens with updates on the implementation of the FY2025 National Budget while soliciting their views and priorities for the upcoming FY2026 budget year. The launch in Sanniquellie is symbolic, representing the government's renewed commitment to decentralization and inclusiveness. This aligns with the 2011 amendment to the Public Financial Management (PFM) Law, mandating citizen engagement in budget preparation and implementation.
Highlighting President Joseph Nyuma Boakai's administration's priorities, Hon. Myers emphasized that decentralization, road access, and citizen-centered consultations are central to national development policy. Deputy Finance Minister for Administration, Hon. Bill McGill Jones, stressed that the Open Budget Initiative is a testament to the government's dedication to openness and accountability, reflecting collective priorities such as education quality, healthcare strength, and community connectivity.
Prince Nyae, representing the local administration, welcomed the initiative as a platform for residents to present their challenges and development priorities, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure and support for local economic growth. The event included participants from various groups, including students, people with disabilities, civil society organizations, and the business community, focusing on government allocations, transparency, and local-level fund tracking.
The government pledged to continue public engagement, fostering inclusivity, and enhancing accountability in public resource management. Civil society organizations are also involved to provide independent oversight and strengthen transparency.