RSP MP Singh criticizes finance minister’s absence during budget discussion

In Kathmandu, Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) MP Dr. Amaresh Kumar Singh expressed dissatisfaction over Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Waglé’s absence during the discussion on the principles and priorities of the Appropriation Bill. Speaking at the House of Representatives meeting on Tuesday, Singh stated that he was compelled to speak out because the government was engaging in unacceptable actions under the guise of breaking tradition.

MP Singh emphasized that in a parliamentary system, it is a tradition for the Finance Minister to be present during budget discussions in Parliament, and the government should adhere to this practice. He accused the government of attempting to undermine the very purpose of Parliament by not following this tradition. He further stated that the government does not have the liberty to dismantle everything in the name of newness.

He remarked, “In the name of breaking tradition, all traditions are being broken. It was customary for the Finance Minister to always be present during budget allocation discussions. The Foreign Minister does not make the budget. The budget for the Foreign Ministry goes there. If we, as five-time MPs, continue to break all traditions, the purpose of this Parliament will be nullified. The parliamentary system will be nullified. Our country, our constitution, has adopted a parliamentary system where all parliamentary entities are equal. Questions are directed at the government, and MPs also convey the people’s concerns to the government. In my twenty-year career, this is the first time I am witnessing a budget allocation bill discussion taking place without the Finance Minister. What kind of tradition is being started? It’s not about breaking everything in the name of newness. Should we also dismantle Singha Durbar, the Prime Minister’s position, and ministerial positions? Everything should be changed because, no matter how busy, it must be meaningful. I was compelled to speak out due to the excess. That’s why I spoke.”

MP Singh expressed his anger, noting that despite being a six-time MP, this was the first time he had seen a budget discussion in Parliament without the Finance Minister present.