The Coalition of Lesotho Public Employees Union (COLEPE) has condemned the proposed three percent increase in the parliamentary budget, as outlined in the tenth amendment to the Constitution Bill 2024.
In a recent statement, COLEPE expressed concerns at the implications of this budget increase, which they argue could lead to severe economic repercussions for the nation.
According to COLEPE, the proposed budget increase would amount to a staggering 341% of the annual recurrent budget, a figure they deem unsustainable. The union contends that this “egocentric motion” prioritises the financial interests of parliamentarians over the welfare of the public service and the citizens of Lesotho.
They assert that such an increase would divert essential resources away from critical public services, hampering efforts to improve living standards and economic stability.
In light of these concerns, COLEPE has called upon parliamentarians to reject the amendment and also urged the public to voice their opposition.
The union believes that collective action is essential to safeguard the interests of the people and to ensure that legislative decisions reflect the needs of all citizens, not just the few in power.
