JCTR bemoans lack of public participation in budgeting

The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has bemoaned lack of public participation in contributing and making submissions to the process of National budget.

JCTR Social and Economic Development Acting Program Manager Sharon Chileshe says Government is weak in providing the public with opportunities to engage in the budget process.

Ms Chileshe says Zambia’s score of 40 out of 100 indicates that the provision of opportunities for the public to engage in the budget process is weak.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, Ms. Chileshe says information derived from public involvement processes provides a critical perspective for making decisions in planning, budgeting, and management.

She says governments should systematically collect, maintain, monitor, and analyze information gained from public involvement activities, maintain contact information on individuals and groups that wish to be kept informed, and use multiple communication mechanisms to ensure that those involved or interested in the process are notified of opportunities for additional feedback and of decisions made based on the public involvement process.

And Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) Executive Director Patrick Nshindano notes that public participation in budgeting can maximize the positive outcomes associated with greater budget transparency.

Mr. Nshindano says in order to measure public participation; there is need for government to provide opportunities for the public to engage in budget processes.