The speaker of the Mazhilis, Yerlan Koshanov, criticized the government for its frequent adjustments to the national budget, reports the correspondent of the business information center Kapital.kz.
During the discussion of amendments to the budget for 2024-2026, Deputy Yerlan Sairov addressed Vice Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Nurlan Baibazarov with a question regarding the government's frequent budget revisions.
“This year, you made 9 adjustments to the national budget without involving Parliament, with the same programs being altered multiple times. This indicates poor planning and a lack of professionalism. Can you clarify which specific expenses you reduced as part of these adjustments? And will you be asking the deputies for budget adjustments again?” the deputy questioned.
In response, Nurlan Baibazarov stated that adjustments are one of the government's powers, and this year there were not 9, but 10 adjustments. He explained this necessity for the country's economic development.
“We always transparently report on the goals of these adjustments. If such changes occur, we promptly inform the deputies. For instance, during the floods in spring, there were additional expenses, and we started cutting costs for forums, events, and business trips to redirect funds toward addressing the consequences of the disaster. Investment and innovation projects were also revised,” he clarified.
The head of the Ministry of National Economy added that due to savings in the agricultural sector, funding was increased threefold, and 100 billion tenge was allocated to resolve the “gas issue.”
However, Speaker Yerlan Koshanov continued his criticism.
“You claim to have made 10 budget adjustments as if this is an achievement. In reality, it is more of a drawback in your work. You make changes every month, which is a sign of inadequate preparation. This is an important aspect to consider,” he stated.
Nevertheless, following the discussion, the Mazhilis approved the bill “On Amendments and Additions to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan on the National Budget for 2024-2026.” The document has been sent to the Senate.