Deputy criticizes finance bill funding

Deputy Estelle Youssouffa announced she would support any motion of censure against the government, criticizing the 2027 finance bill and how funds allocated to Mayotte are being handled. She argues that the territory is not receiving enough money for rebuilding and that there is a gap between promised funding and actual implementation.

Finance bill fails to meet needs

Youssouffa criticized the 2027 finance bill on the Mayotte La 1ère program "Zakwéli," stating that the 10% increase in the Ministry of Overseas Territories' budget does not address Mayotte's needs. The government plans to provide 100 million euros in aid for the Department-Region, with 307 million euros in engagement authorizations and 261 million euros in payment credits for 2027. However, she argues the real impact depends on how the funds are used and when they are available.

Funding amounts fall short of needs

Youssouffa pointed out that the 668 million euros allocated for 2027 is less than the 674 million euros planned for the previous year. She argues this reduction is unacceptable given Mayotte's unmet needs. She referenced the 2026 budget, where 674 million euros were planned but only 54 million were spent, highlighting the difference between budgetary authorization and actual spending.

Delays in funding hinder local efforts

Youssouffa criticized the 100 million euros in payment credits intended for local authorities, arguing they should have been received this year. Delays, she says, make it harder for local authorities to plan investments and address urgent needs. She emphasizes that public credibility depends not only on promised amounts but also on meeting deadlines and delivering results.

Criticism extends beyond reconstruction

Beyond reconstruction, Youssouffa criticized the government for what she describes as neglecting Mayotte, linking this to concerns about violence and the effectiveness of state presence. Her opposition to the budget is seen as a political response to what she calls a lack of action on the ground, rather than a rejection of the government itself.

Political pressure for accountability

Youssouffa's position aligns with the Socialist Party's potential threat of a motion of censure. She previously supported a censure motion in January and says the issues raised then remain unresolved. Her stance highlights the political aspect of the budget debate, as she seeks to hold the government accountable for its commitments and the use of funds in Mayotte.