Zebaldt Ngaruka
National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) parliamentarian Vetaruhe Kandorozu is concerned about the government’s operational expenditure, the biggest component of the total budget allocation.
Operational expenditure refers to the recurring cost incurred by the government to maintain and run its daily operations.
These expenses are distinct from capital expenditures, which are investments in long-term assets and are managed by the Ministry of Finance.
It consists of salaries, GIPF contributions, medical aid and subsistence and travel allowances (S&T).
Kandorozu, in his contribution in the National Assembly recently, said the government’s medical aid scheme is “one of the worst options available”.
In many instances, the MP said, the scheme ran out of funds for consultation fees and over-the-counter expenses, adding that it does not adequately cover more serious illnesses that could require a month-long hospital stay.
“Many services from medical practitioners are not covered, requiring patients to pay upfront and seek reimbursement later. This can be a frustrating and long process,” said the parliamentarian.
Kandorozu proposed that the government offers individuals more options so that they can choose the category of contributions that best suits their needs.
The MP gave an example of a retired farmer who worked for the government and had over 300 cattle but reduced his herd to 30 due to medical bills as the government medical aid couldn’t cover some treatment.
“He sold most of his cattle, this can happen to you, me and anyone with government medical aid,” he said.
On the issue of S&T, the MP said it is “pathetic” to learn that as of 01 April 2025, the S&T allowance had doubled and, in some cases, quadrupled.
He proposed that ministries and agencies that have already spent more on S&T should cut their spending and allocate that money to more pressing issues.
“It is very disappointing to see general meetings that can take place in the boardroom taking place in other localities for the sake of S&T payment,” said the former Okakarara constituency councillor.
On the capital expenditure allocation, Kandorozu said money given for infrastructure development was just to boost and brag about.
“This is not ideal while our execution rate is very low because of the red tape and unnecessary government bureaucracy in the procurement system,” he noted.
This practice, the MP said, is disappointing, as government investment should promote economic growth and job creation in the country.
“We are looking forward to the president’s intervention on this issue, to ensure 95% to 100% projection implementation within a clear stipulated time frame.”
-zngaruka@yahoo.com