Osih Grills Finance Minister Over 2027 Budget Priorities

The Member of Parliament for Wouri Centre and National Chairman of the Social Democratic Front (SDF), Hon. Joshua Osih, has challenged the Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, over key economic and fiscal issues during the ongoing Budget Orientation Debate ahead of the 2027 Finance Bill.

In a wide-ranging intervention, the opposition lawmaker questioned the Government\'s record on implementing the National Development Strategy 2020–2030 (NDS30), noting that six years after its launch, economic growth projections for 2026 had been revised downwards. He called for measurable results and an independent assessment of the strategy\'s impact on the living standards of Cameroonians.

Hon. Osih also sought explanations on the Government\'s macroeconomic assumptions, the effectiveness of import substitution policies, youth employment programmes, public debt management and the performance of the Public Investment Budget.

Turning to infrastructure, the MP criticised the prolonged deterioration of National Road No. 3 linking Douala to the city\'s seaport and international airport. He argued that despite Douala\'s strategic contribution to State revenue, the corridor has remained in poor condition for more than two decades, with adverse consequences for trade and economic activity.

The SDF leader further questioned the Government\'s preparedness for the projected revenue shortfall expected after the planned departure of the Golar liquefied natural gas facility from Kribi. He warned that the anticipated loss of between FCFA 250 billion and FCFA 300 billion in State revenue would require concrete fiscal measures rather than policy assurances.

Throughout his intervention, Hon. Osih urged the Government to provide verifiable data on the implementation of public policies, insisting that the Budget Orientation Debate should focus on accountability, measurable outcomes and the efficient use of public resources. He also raised concerns over governance, political risk, the country\'s compliance with international anti-money laundering standards and the need to strengthen public confidence in State finances.