Current centralized gov’t remains contentious issue: Wale

LEADER of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale says our current centralized government system remains a contentious issue.

Speaking in Parliament recently during the debate on the TRC Report, Hon Wale said the centralized governance has not worked for our country.

“The Government has spent a substantial amount of money on the state/federal government system process and after all that investment it is not sure the recommended proposals are suitable for our country,” he said.

The Opposition Leader also highlighted the contradicting positions shared by the Prime Minister and Government MPs on the floor of Parliament.

He said the different views by Government MPs on the federal system have raised concerns on the lack of Government’s clear position on the matter.

“There are promises made by the Prime Minister of steps being taken to pursue this federal system of Governance, while other Government MPs are saying in Parliament that they disagree with such a possibility,” he said.

Hon Wale said the Government needs to be decisive on the proposals contained in the final draft from this process.

He said there is great anticipation of these reforms.

“Delaying it is fuelling tensions. However, enacting what will not work, as some Ministers may be fearing, will be worse for the country,” Hon Wale told Parliament.

The Opposition Leader said any new system of government must strengthen our national unity and must not be reactionary.

He said we cannot build a country on fear.

“At the very least, government should move quickly to decentralize more powers, responsibilities and resources to the Provinces,” he said.

Hon Wale said it is critical that we confront these issues head-on.

“Land reform, resource sector reform, and constitutional change aren’t just bureaucratic or legislative challenges – they are fundamental prerequisites to healing our nation, building lasting peace, and creating a future in which every citizen feels represented and valued,” he said.

ENDS//