Government submitted a budget based on manipulated figures and deception; this is a "Pinocchio budget" from Dr. Pinocchio: Meekail

Member of Parliament for South Galolhu, Meekail Ahmed Naseem, has characterized the budget proposed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration as a "deceptive" document, alleging that figures were manipulated to sell falsehoods to the public.

Speaking at Tuesday's parliamentary sitting, MP Meekail severely criticized the government's proposed budget for the upcoming year.

Meekail stated that the fundamental purpose of the state budget is to improve the living conditions of citizens year after year and to provide their representatives with the opportunity to oversee public finances. However, he noted that the currently proposed budget presents a completely different picture.

In his remarks, Meekail described the budget proposed by President Muizzu’s administration as one that would further worsen the living conditions of the Maldivian people.

He stated that while a budget should be formulated based on accurate information, the current administration has submitted a "deceptive" budget designed to sell falsehoods to the public by manipulating figures. Referring to the fiscal plan, Meekail heavily criticized the government, labeling it "Dr. Pinocchio’s Pinocchio Budget."

Highlighting the details of the budget, Meekail stated that the document fails to provide a clear breakdown of state expenditure and revenue generation strategies. He further noted that the budget figures reveal a financing gap of MVR 2.4 billion, describing the shortfall as a matter of serious concern.

Furthermore, Meekail stated that the budget process must be conducted with transparency. However, he accused the current administration of attempting to deceive the public and present a distorted reality. He further warned that this budget would pose significant challenges to the people's standard of living.