Chisinau's 2024 Budget unclear: PAS clashes with Mayor
Chisinau's Municipal Council session scheduled for today, initiated by the opposition PAS faction, was abruptly cancelled due to insufficient attendance.
With only 15 councillors present, the meeting fell short of the 26-member quorum required for deliberations, leaving the city's 2024 budget proposal in limbo.
PAS Raises Transparency Concerns:
Zinaida Popa, leader of PAS, expressed grave concerns about the delayed budget document. "Public consultation for the 2024 budget, mandated by December 10th, has not yet occurred," she stated, highlighting uncertainties over infrastructure projects, public transportation initiatives, and support programs for vulnerable populations. Popa warned that unless Mayor Ion Ceban publishes the proposal within three weeks, the PAS faction will present an alternative budget.
Mayor Cites State Budget Hurdles:
Mayor Ceban attributed the budget delay to ongoing negotiations and uncertainties surrounding the national budget. "Until key parameters are finalised at the state level, crafting the municipal budget would be premature," he explained. Ceban further criticised the "unfavourable interventions" introduced by the state in the 2023 budget, suggesting potential clashes on similar lines this year. He pointed to his unsuccessful amendments seeking additional funding for waste management, road repairs, and suburban support programs.
Uncertain Path Forward:
With the meeting cancelled and the budget proposal lingering, the immediate path forward remains unclear. Mayor Ceban assured that a new session will be convened once all councillors are officially sworn in. However, the unresolved budget casts a shadow over the municipality, potentially fueling further political friction between PAS and the Mayor.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
