Maseru, March 27 Although the 2026/2027 budget estimates were presented during the ongoing Middle East war, coupled with continuing global economic challenges, the government remains committed to addressing the impact of the war even if the Appropriation (2026/2027) Bill, 2026 is passed.

This was said by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning Dr. Rets'elisitsoe Matlanyane when moving that the Appropriation (2026/2027) Bill, 2026, be read for the third time in the National Assembly and be passed.

Dr. Matlanyane said the Bill is passed when the government is still wondering how it would address the economic impact of this war but would make adjustments whenever there is need, especially when gas and fuel prices are expected to increase for the benefit of Basotho.

"The appropriation bill is not only a bill but also a working document that could be amended as time goes, based on the challenges that might be encountered,” she stressed.

She also assured that essential services will continue to be accessible for Basotho, saying the 2026/2027 budget is the strategic instrument for economic recovery and accelerated service delivery as well as to pave the way and survive the turmoil of the ongoing wars.

She assured that the government has heard every concern raised and contribution made by each MP and will strive to act on them with discipline, transparency and accountability.

She further stressed that implementation of the budget will be decisive, transparent and firmly aligned with public financial management principle as well as with the government priorities.

"We cannot afford delays or inefficiencies, let us respect the public and their funds and ensure it is used for the benefit of the nation" she emphasised.

She concluded by acknowledging all stakeholders who include amongst others, Speaker of the National Assembly and Deputy Speaker,  Members of Parliament and Civil servants for the job well done during the 2026/2027 budget estimates.

"The level of scrutiny, discipline and commitment of all stakeholders is highly appreciated," she stressed, appealing to the House to fulfil its mandate of oversight and manage the public finances.

Meanwhile the MPs supported that the bill be passed, with emphasis on adjustments whenever there is need due to ongoing wars in the world as well as to ensure the public funds are not misused but benefit the people.

The Bill was therefore read for the third time and passed by the House.

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