PF nods 2027 budget, hails K80m CDF allocation

By MUBITA KATETE

THE Patriotic Front (PF) has welcomed the 2027 national budget, describing it as a home-grown and stimulus-oriented budget that recognises the private sector as a key driver of economic growth.

PF secretary general for administration Edwin Lifwekelo said the budget presented by Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane marked a shift from dependence on donor support towards financing development through public-private partnerships.

Mr Lifwekelo said the party was particularly pleased that Government had maintained the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), describing the allocation as a significant investment in local development.

He said constituencies affected by delimitation would benefit from an allocation of K80 million, which would translate into increased resources for areas that had been divided into two.

"The party wishes to appreciate President Hakainde Hichilema and Government for making it a priority to maintain the social safety net to cushion the high cost of living among our people, particularly through the CDF," he said.

Mr Lifwekelo said the budget demonstrated Government's commitment to stimulating growth in key sectors, including tourism, agriculture, education, mining and infrastructure development.

He said the proposed measures on Pay As You Earn (PAYE), customs and excise duty showed that Government was seeking to stimulate economic activity through incentives and other initiatives.

"There is a balance between revenue concessions and compensatory measures in order to strike a balance between revenue collection and cushioning the impact these measures may have on our citizens," he said.

Mr Lifwekelo said the PF also welcomed Government's intention to construct six universities, saying the move demonstrated President Hichilema's commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises and prioritising education.

He said the party believed the budget had taken into account the need to support citizens while creating an environment conducive to economic growth.

Ends.