Jamaica Opposition Senator alleges $96 billion in unspent capital budget

Opposition Senator Ramon Small-Ferguson has charged that nearly $96.3 billion in allocated capital funds went unspent in Jamaica over a ten-year period from 2016/17 to 2025/26. During a State of the Nation Debate in the Senate, Small-Ferguson noted that while $635.7 billion was originally budgeted for capital expenditure, only approximately $539.4 billion was actually spent.

The shortfall, which occurred in nine of the ten financial years, has reportedly hindered essential investments in roads, water systems, hospitals, and other critical public infrastructure. Small-Ferguson attributed the fiscal space for these budgets to economic reforms initiated under previous administrations.

In addition to infrastructure concerns, the Senator highlighted economic pressures facing Jamaican households. He cited rising inflation, noting that food prices increased by 10.2 percent and transport prices by 14.6 percent. He also criticized the government for failing to meet its minimum wage promise, stating the delivered increase to $17,000 per week fell short of the promised $18,500.