Amidst the serious economic turmoil and increasing mass dissatisfaction, the Pakistani government has approved a huge increase of 500% in the salary of National Assembly Speaker and Senate Chairman. The decision has been criticized by both citizens and experts, in which the government’s commitment to financial discipline has been questioned.
Top MPs will get 1.3 million Pakistani rupees monthly salary
According to local media reports, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani will now get a monthly salary of 1.3 million Pakistani rupees, which is much higher than his last 205,000 Pakistani rupees. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has issued a notification confirming that the revised salary will be applicable from January 1, 2025.
Contradiction in claims
The salary amendment is made after the same increase earlier this year, including PKR 519,000 monthly increase for members and senators of the National Assembly (MNA). In March, cabinet ministers, state ministers and advisors were also given 188% increments. This increment has been done despite repeated promises made by the government to manage the financial problems of the country.
Public anger is boiling
The move has already received strong reaction from rising inflation, comprehensive unemployment, rising fuel costs and increased taxation citizens. Many people consider the salary hike as insensitive and taken at the wrong time, especially when Pakistan is very much dependent on the international bailout, including a recent package of $ 1 billion from Pakistan.
