KATHMANDU:  Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle will respond today to lawmakers’ questions on the government’s policy and program, instead of Prime Minister Balen Shah, who initially had the responsibility.

The Prime Minister’s Secretariat said the decision was made to better explain the policy’s economic and development plans.

Lawmakers have raised concerns over foreign debt, job creation, and the digital economy ahead of the national budget.

The House of Representatives meeting is scheduled for 11 a.m., where Wagle is expected to answer point-wise and outline government priorities for the coming fiscal year.

Opposition leaders have criticized the policy for lacking clarity and objected to the Prime Minister’s absence, calling it a “disregard for Parliament.”