According to Besigye, the proposed budget plans to collect approximately UGX 32 trillion in taxes while simultaneously facing a staggering UGX 34.6 trillion in debt obligations. He argued that this discrepancy indicates that Uganda will inevitably need to borrow more money just to meet its existing debt commitments, let alone cover other expenses such as salaries. “Can the Minister, or anyone from the government, explain how they plan to cover all these costs?” he challenged.
Besigye criticized the government’s approach, describing it as “borrowing its own earnings,” a strategy he believes is unsustainable and could lead to dire consequences for the economy. Despite Minister Musasizi’s defense of the budget—highlighting economic growth and low inflation—Besigye remains skeptical, labeling the budget as unrealistic and calling for greater transparency.