By Emma Black

In a bid to deepen transparency and accountability in governance, the Makeni City Council (MCC) on Tuesday September 30, 2025, convened its 2026 Bilateral Budget Discussion for the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The session, held at the D’Light Center in Makeni, brought together devolved sectors, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), alongside civil society organizations and non-state actors, to deliberate on fiscal priorities for the coming year.

The proceedings were formally opened by the Chief Administrator of Makeni City Council, who called the meeting to order. Delivering his welcome address, the Mayor of Makeni expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host another round of constructive dialogue. He commended participants for their dedication to service delivery and extended special appreciation to the delegation from the Ministry of Finance for making time to listen to the voices of Makeni residents.

The Mayor encouraged sector representatives to present both their successes and gaps, urging them to advance strong proposals that would enhance public services within the municipality.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, Abdulai M. Jalloh stressed the significance of bilateral budget discussions in shaping national development. He reminded participants that the exercise was not merely procedural, but a crucial platform to carefully articulate and defend their priorities. Jalloh reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to partnering with local councils and devolved institutions to improve outcomes for citizens across the country.

Throughout the day, devolved sectors, MDAs, and MCC officials presented their five key deliverables and funding priorities for the 2026 fiscal year. These submissions were reviewed by representatives of the Budget Oversight Committee, civil society organizations, and other non-state actors. Although critical feedback was raised on certain proposals, consensus was eventually reached, reflecting a spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility.

The Chief Administrator chaired the open forum, which allowed for further questions and clarifications before the final adoption of the proposed budget allocations. The validation process was concluded when civil society activist Mr. Banato formally moved a motion for approval, which was seconded by Mr. Sulaiman Sixties, sealing the day’s deliberations with unanimous agreement.

The 2026 Bilateral Budget Discussion marks another step in the City Council’s efforts to ensure fiscal inclusivity, accountability, and citizen-driven development in Makeni.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Friday, 3rd October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)