The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Budget Assembly witnessed a heated session today as Speaker Babar Saleem Swati used special powers to approve the province’s Rs. 2,119 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, overriding all opposition objections. The controversial move came after failed negotiations between the treasury and opposition benches, with Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur present during the decisive vote.
Opposition Walks Out in Protest
The approval process sparked immediate backlash from opposition parties, who staged a walkout after their 47 cut motions were dismissed. Opposition Leader Dr. Ibadullah Khan condemned the speaker’s actions as “a blatant disregard for democratic norms,” accusing the government of bulldozing the budget without proper debate. JUI-F and PTI-P members chanted slogans against what they called “dictatorial tactics” before exiting the assembly hall.
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Key Features of the Approved Budget
The contentious budget includes several significant provisions:
– A 10% salary increase for government employees
– 7% raise in pension benefits
– Minimum wage set at Rs. 40,000 per month
– Rs. 412 billion allocated for development projects
– Increased funding for education (15%) and healthcare (12%)
Political Implications and Reactions
The unilateral approval has intensified political tensions in the province, with opposition parties vowing to challenge the decision through both parliamentary and legal channels. Political analysts warn this confrontation could paralyze legislative work and hamper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Budget implementation. Meanwhile, the provincial finance minister defended the budget as “pro-people,” claiming it addresses inflation pressures while maintaining development priorities.
The standoff reflects growing polarization in KP politics, with observers noting this could set a troubling precedent for future legislative processes. Opposition parties have announced plans for province-wide protests, while the government maintains it acted within constitutional parameters to ensure timely budget approval.
