What Should Legislatures at All Levels Do Before Approving a Budget?
As legislative bodies across Ethiopia begin reviewing budget proposals submitted by the executive branch, the Center for Budgetary Governance Advocacy (CBGA) highlights the critical steps that legislatures must take to ensure public budgets are transparent, inclusive, and accountable.
6/27/20251 min read
Key Responsibilities of Legislatures Before Budget Approval:
1️⃣ Review the Executive Budget Proposal Thoroughly
Ensure it aligns with national, regional or local development priorities and responds to current socio-economic challenges.
2️⃣ Scrutinize Revenue Projections and Expenditure Allocations
Ask: Are revenue forecasts realistic? Are expenditures focused on essential services and vulnerable populations?
3️⃣ Hold Hearings and Stakeholder Consultations
Engage civil society, private sector, and citizens to ensure the budget reflects community needs and priorities.
4️⃣ Examine Past Budget Performance
Review implementation reports, audit findings, and fiscal performance to hold the executive accountable.
5️⃣ Assess Equity and Gender Responsiveness
Does the budget advance equity across regions, genders, and population groups?
6️⃣ Ensure Transparency and Accessibility
Request detailed breakdowns and require the publication of key budget documents in a timely and understandable format.
7️⃣ Plan for Oversight and Monitoring
Budget approval is just the beginning—legislatures must set the stage for monitoring and evaluating implementation.
Budgets are not just technical documents—they are political and moral commitments. Legislatures must rise to the occasion by exercising informed, independent, and inclusive oversight.
At CBGA, we advocate for a strong legislative role in budget governance—because democratic accountability begins with informed budget decisions.
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Center for Budgetary Governance Advocacy
A local CSO advocating for participatory and robust budgetary process and human rights consciousness in budgeting.