By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia, Liberia — The House of Representatives passed a $53 million supplementary budget for Fiscal Year 2026 late Thursday night, funded mainly by $40 million in World Bank budget support carried over from FY2025, plus $5 million in excess domestic revenue and an $8 million World Bank bonus tied to budget over-performance. Lawmakers said the recast aims to stabilize payroll, sustain public services, and channel targeted funds to key sectors without exceeding confirmed revenues and partner commitments. The package grew from an initial $45 million proposal after adjustments based on updated revenue figures.
Public administration received the largest share at $14.55 million to maintain core operations, support fiscal systems, meet international obligations, and clear arrears. Security and rule of law were allocated $8.43 million for the Armed Forces, National Police, and other agencies. Infrastructure and basic services got $9.57 million for transport upgrades, equipment, and rehabilitation, while health and education received $8.32 million and $7.25 million, respectively. Social development, local government, energy, environment, agriculture, and transparency initiatives make up the balance.
House Ways, Means and Finance Chair Rep. P. Mike Jurry defended the process as rigorous, saying “every line in this budget was justified.” He pushed back on criticism of supplementary budgets, noting the funds came from proven excess revenue, not new borrowing. “Security, health, and education directly impact the daily lives of Liberians, and that is where intervention is most critical,” Jurry said, adding that improved collections by the Finance Ministry and LRA signal continued fiscal growth. The vote closes the Legislature’s special session called to address the adjustments.
