Venezuelan communes to get more funds than mayor's offices

While communities will receive USD 2.04 billion, municipalities will get USD 1.2 billion

Pursuant to Venezuela's Budget Law for fiscal year 2013, the Inter-Territorial Compensation Fund will allocate 25% more funds to communities than to governor's offices (File photo)

MAYELA ARMAS H. | EL UNIVERSAL

Wednesday December 19, 2012 12:53 PM

Venezuela's Budget Law for fiscal year 2013 provides that some USD 4.9 billion will be allocated by the Inter-territorial Compensation Fund (FCI) to the projects and plans of governor's offices, mayoralties and communal councils. However, in distributing the funds, authorities benefit the so-called communes over the rest.

As set forth in the law, USD 1.6 billion will be allocated to the states; USD 1.2 billion to municipalities, and USD 2.04 billion to people's power and reinforcement of institutions (communal-based plans).

Such division clearly shows that funds for communal councils and communes exceed by 69% those of mayoralties, and by 25% those of governor's offices.

The Venezuelan Government has sought any means to strengthen the communal regime. Back in 2010, the laws on the people's power were enacted. Despite the legal framework, progress has been gradual. Next year, the model will be speeded up.

The Second Socialist Plan 2013-2019 provides that the creation of the five district pillars for development must be encouraged. Such pillars shall include the communes and the communal councils as well.

marmas@eluniversal.com

Translated by Jhean Cabrera

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