Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Juretha Fernandes on Friday expressed support for the government’s move to pass its fourth tax free budget on Monday, January 15. At the same time, she underlined her expectations for additional measures that can ease the cost of living burden on citizens.
At his recent weekly press conference Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo assured that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is well-positioned to implement its developmental plans for 2024 without imposing new taxes on citizens.
“When it comes to Mr. Jagdeo saying there will be no new taxes, I expect nothing less,” she remarked. Anticipating a budget exceeding $1 trillion, Fernandes called for a reduction in Value Added Tax (VAT) among others. She also called for an increase in the Income Tax threshold to $150,000.
Fernandes was also critical of the PPP administration for what she perceived as a lack of consultation with unions nationwide regarding the 2024 budget, as well as the parliamentary opposition. “…The PPP administration has not consulted the opposition for any budget since they took office,” Fernandes claimed.
The Alliance For Change (AFC) member said she found it ironic that after announcing the budget date as January 15, photos surfaced of the Finance Minister engaging in consultations with the private sector, which she dismissed as mere photo ops.
As Budget 2024 approaches, these contrasting perspectives contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the economic direction of the country.
