Despite ongoing austerity measures such as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif diverting reductions in fuel prices to infrastructure projects in Balochistan, citing “lack of funds,” the government has approved a massive increase to the salaries of the Senate chairman and National Assembly speaker, granting them Rs. 1.3 million/month.
In a notification dated May 29, the government has increased the salaries of the Senate chairman and NA speaker from Rs. 205,000/month to Rs. 1.3 million/month, in addition 50% of the revised salary (Rs. 650,000) as sumptuary allowance. The increase has been granted retrospectively, going into effect from January 2025.
The massive hike follows a similar increase to the salaries and allowances of federal cabinet members by up to 188%, as well as an increase to the salaries of MNAs and senators, raising their pay to Rs. 519,000/month.
The move has attracted criticism, including from within the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), as the government continues to expect sacrifices from the public while awarding lawmakers, highlighting a growing disconnect between the public and elected officials. In a post on X, senior PMLN leader Khawaja Saad Rafique said the move lacked moral justification.
Similarly, PMLN Additional Secretary Information has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the decision. Noting the government cannot justify hikes to the perks and privileges of lawmakers while seeking assistance from IMF, he urged both the NA speaker and the Senate chairman to reject the offer. “They must lead by example,” he advised.