MPs seek finance Minister Wagle’s presence in committee for pre-budget discussion

Kathmandu: Members of Parliament have called for Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle to be invited to a parliamentary committee for discussions on the upcoming budget and economic policy.

The Development, Economic Affairs and Good Governance Committee under the National Assembly held a meeting on Monday to discuss its annual work plan, during which participating MPs stressed the need for the Finance Minister’s presence.

Nepali Communist Party MP Ghanashyam Rijal urged that pre-budget discussions be initiated promptly. There is a constitutional provision requiring the government to present the budget for the next fiscal year on Jestha 15 each year, and it has been a practice to hold pre-budget discussions in Parliament, including in thematic committees, beforehand.

CPN-UML MP Rekha Kumari Jha emphasized that the upcoming budget should prioritize Madhesh. She stated that the role played by Madhesh in forming the new government should be reflected in budget allocation, ensuring fairness and justice.

Similarly, Nepali Communist Party MP Savitri Malla supported the call to invite the Finance Minister for discussions. She stressed that Madhesh should be given priority in the budget and urged the government to formulate policies and plans that address historically underdeveloped regions, including Karnali. She also called for discussions with the Finance Minister on ensuring equitable budget distribution.