Budget: 'Old wine, old bottles...'

Gaolathe's budget painted a grim future for the working class. Public servants will not see any increment in their salaries. "In light of the tight budgetary outlook arising from the unfolding global financial crisis and economic slowdown, government has agreed that there be no public sector cost of living adjustment during 2009/2010 financial year," Gaolathe said yesterday.

Political and economic observers say while Gaolathe has failed to spell out how the government hopes to "turn challenges into opportunities" and rally support around that strategy, the budget did not have any surprises.