The recent success in completing the third review under the IMF’s US$3billion programme is a breath of fresh air in these otherwise tense times.
With US$360million unlocked following this development, we have shown the world our commitment to stabilising the economy and fostering growth. However, the challenges ahead demand unity and a steadfast focus on national priorities.
Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has assured that the government is firmly on track with its fiscal objectives for 2024, stressing the importance of maintaining stability. Yet, delays in passing critical agreements, such as the US$300million World Bank funding, highlight the need for urgent legislative action.
When Parliament reconvenes on December 16, lawmakers must put aside partisan differences and prioritise economic recovery, irrespective of the eventual winner of the elections.
There is no gain saying that elections often strain national unity, but this time must be different. Our leaders, regardless of political affiliation, must ensure the momentum of economic progress is not lost to divisive rhetoric or short-term political gains.
Parliament’s role is pivotal. The legislative body must pass laws that enable critical funding and provide the frameworks needed for sustainable growth. Failure to act decisively could jeopardise our hard-won gains and hinder efforts to address long-standing structural challenges.
As citizens, we also share a responsibility. The coming elections provide an opportunity to demand accountability and ensure our leaders’ policies align with the nation’s priorities. Recovery remains fragile, and sustaining it requires continuity in governance and a commitment to policies that benefit all.
This moment calls for unity, maturity and a focus on the collective good. The path forward is clear: we must work together to consolidate the progress made under the IMF programme, implement essential reforms and strengthen the foundations of our economy.
Let us prove that we can rise above political divides, particularly in times of critical need. By putting the nation first in parliamentary deliberations and the elections ahead, we can turn this period of recovery into lasting prosperity for all. The choice is ours to make—and the time to act is now!
We commend Mr. Speaker for the recall, and believe his statesmanship will shine through. After all, like our forebears said: When two mammoths* fight, it is the ground that suffers.
