ISLAMABAD, Jun 25 (NNI): In the midst of a severe economic crisis gripping the country, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Sunday strongly opposed the proposed Senate chairman perks bill, urging his fellow parliamentarians to stand against it, citing the economic realities facing the country.
Speaking in the National Assembly, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader has asked his fellow parliamentarians to stand against it, citing the impoverished state of the country’s finances.
On June 19, the Senate unanimously but hurriedly passed a bill “The Chairman Senate (Salaries, Allowance and Privileges) Act, 2023” , which makes the Senate chairmen, whether serving or retired, one of the most privileged persons in Pakistan.
All the political parties, including PMLN, PPP, PTI, JUIF and other PDM parties, supported these private bills, which were passed in an apparent behind-the-scene understanding of all the concerned at a time when the country is facing a serious financial crisis.
Khawaja Asif clarified that Members of the National Assembly (MNAs), who in the last few days had left to perform Hajj, would bear their expenditures themselves. “Not a single of them will perform Hajj on state expenses,” he told the House.
The minister made an earnest request to all lawmakers to refrain from availing unnecessary protocol, as it creates further divisions between the lawmakers and the masses they represent.
In a noteworthy suggestion, Asif recommended that if anyone requires security, it should be arranged privately.
While acknowledging the autonomy of the Senate in its decision-making process, Asif expressed his strong disapproval of the bill concerning the privileges bestowed upon the Senate chairman.
He urged the members of the National Assembly not to support this particular legislation, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the critical financial situation facing the country. NNI
