Opposition members say there are several inconsistencies, contradictions, and fudging of numbers they would have brought up during the 2025/2026 budget debate if government ministers had presented their plans instead of unexpectedly wrapping up the debate.

Speaking at a PNM press conference at the Balisier House, Port of Spain, on October 18, Diego Martin North/East MP Colm Imbert said the budget revenue was inflated while the expenditure was understated.

He pointed out that international agencies estimate the price of oil in 2026 to be between US$50-60 per barrel, while the government’s estimated oil price for the budget was $73.25, inflating revenue by at least $1 billion.