Self-serving priorities

The disconnect between the Senate and the citizenry became glaringly obvious when the upper house overwhelmingly voted in favour of a bill to increase the perks and privileges of all senators, even with the country teetering on the brink of an economic disaster. While all senators would see their pay and perks rise if the legislation passes, the biggest gains will be for the Senate chairman, whose salary would be bumped up to Rs205,000, with household expense allowances totalling about Rs55,000, and travel expenses for the chairman, their family and two servants, lest anyone be forced to prepare their own tea like a commoner.

Among the most eye-catching changes proposed are those relating to housing. The chairman is entitled to an official residence with up to Rs5 million available for furnishing during a full senate term, or a rented house worth up to Rs250,000 a month, rising to Rs500,000 for a furnished property. Meanwhile, the chairman would be paid Rs250,000 per month if they decide to live in their own house to cover wear and tear, and will also be paid to set up a residential office. The chairman and their family are entitled to fully-funded private healthcare, including home care, and full security detail for life, which not even the senate chairpersons of several wealthier and more violent countries are entitled to. Incidentally, the US, despite legitimate security threats and greater resources, only gives protection for life to its president.

While the PPP and a few other parties have said they outright oppose raising perks and privileges at a time of austerity, it is surprising that their senators still voted in favour and are not facing any party sanctions. At times as tough as these, senators — many of whom are astoundingly rich — would be well advised to forgo as many benefits as possible, if only to create the illusion that they care about their fellow citizens. Unfortunately, since senators do not need to face constituents, they are unlikely to introspect anytime soon.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 21^st, 2023.

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