The Joint Committee of Citizens and Citizens’ Organizations (CCOC Madagascar) is promoting the Finance Bill 2025 (PLF). Every year since 2019, the CCOC has been reminding the government to make the PLF public as soon as it is transmitted to Parliament. However, that is still not the case today. Therefore, he requests, among other things, that this bill and the budget documents be published as soon as possible.
The chairman of the Finance Committee of the National Assembly announced the description of PLF 2025 by the government in the National Assembly on 30 October. However, the PLF is not yet available on the website of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the various deputies interviewed by the collective and journalists confirmed that they had not yet received this document.
In accordance with the duty of transparency and accountability, the State should be eager to make this document public as soon as possible, reminds the collective in a press release, specifying at the same time ” it is our duty as citizens to investigate the content of this law, especially in the current context where budgetary efforts are being implemented in the energy sector to the detriment of the social sectors ».
Therefore, the CCOC also requires that parliamentarians and the executive be available to say and discuss the content of the PLF with all citizens before the vote. He also asks that deputies and senators take responsibility so that there is not a quick vote on PLF 2025.” We ask you to take time to examine its content, meet the various stakeholders and protect the interests of citizens. ».
The CCOC also asks that the State and the representatives of the population have a responsibility to guarantee transparency and integrity in the management of public resources, because it is citizens’ money, which must be used for the benefit of the public. He is indeed concerned about the risk that Madagascar will increase its score of 39/100 during the next surveys on the open budget, as it faces, on the one hand, the lack of transparency of the budgetary process and, on the other another, with him. the difficulties associated with citizens’ access to the Finance Bill.
What specific measures can be taken to enhance transparency in Madagascar’s financial legislation process?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Lucien Raharimandimby, Economic Policy Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Raharimandimby. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent developments regarding the Finance Bill 2025 in Madagascar.
Dr. Raharimandimby: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a crucial topic for Madagascar’s economic governance.
Editor: The Joint Committee of Citizens and Citizens’ Organizations (CCOC Madagascar) has been vocal about the need for transparency regarding the Finance Bill. Why is it so critical for them to have the PLF published as soon as it’s transmitted to Parliament?
Dr. Raharimandimby: Transparency is fundamental in any democratic system, especially concerning fiscal policies that affect every citizen. By publishing the Finance Bill promptly, the government allows citizens, organizations, and policymakers to engage in informed discussions, provide feedback, and hold the administration accountable. This transparency helps foster trust in public institutions.
Editor: The CCOC has been advocating for this since 2019. What do you think has been the biggest obstacle to achieving this goal?
Dr. Raharimandimby: There are likely multiple layers of challenges. Primarily, a lack of political will can emerge from concerns about public scrutiny. Additionally, institutional capacity issues—such as inadequate resources within the Ministry of Economy and Finance to manage timely communication—can also hinder this process. Each year that passes without the bill being accessible reflects a wider issue of governance and engagement.
Editor: The chairman of the Finance Committee recently announced that the PLF would be described in the National Assembly on October 30. However, the bill is still not available online. How does this delay impact the legislative process and public participation?
Dr. Raharimandimby: Delays in publishing the Finance Bill restrict public access to crucial information, thereby limiting civic engagement. The legislative process becomes somewhat opaque, which can lead to criticisms of inefficiency. When citizens and organizations cannot review the bill ahead of time, it hinders meaningful participation and makes it difficult for them to prepare to respond to proposed policies effectively.
Editor: In your view, how can the government improve its communication and publication processes regarding financial legislation?
Dr. Raharimandimby: The government could adopt a more proactive approach by establishing clear timelines for the release of financial documents. Implementing a routine communication strategy that includes the publication of drafts for public comment could enrich the legislative discussion. Additionally, using digital platforms more effectively could help reach a broader audience and encourage feedback.
Editor: What are the potential consequences for citizens if the government continues to ignore calls for transparency in the financial legislation process?
Dr. Raharimandimby: A lack of transparency can lead to increased public distrust in government institutions. It often breeds an environment where fiscal mismanagement and corruption can thrive unchallenged. Ultimately, if citizens feel excluded from the decision-making process, it could lead to financial policies that do not reflect the needs or priorities of the populace.
Editor: Dr. Raharimandimby, what can citizens do to push for accountability and transparency regarding the Finance Bill and other financial matters?
Dr. Raharimandimby: Citizens can lobby for transparency through organized efforts, such as advocacy campaigns led by civil society organizations like the CCOC. Participating in public consultations, utilizing social media to raise awareness, and engaging constructively with their elected representatives can create pressure for change. Ultimately, strengthening civic engagement is vital for ensuring that voices are heard in the political process.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Raharimandimby, for your insights on this important issue. It’s essential for citizens to stay engaged and informed.
Dr. Raharimandimby: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this vital issue. I hope we can see progressive improvements in governance soon.