Political bickering derails budget discussion in PA

LAHORE:

The second day of the general discussion on the annual budget 2023-24 in the legislative assembly witnessed heated debates and a lack of focus as both treasury and opposition lawmakers engaged in blame games regarding the country's economic woes, inflation and sectorial destruction.

Lawmakers from both sides diverted from the core topic, delving into discussions about various unrelated issues such as Adiyala Jail, allegations of corruption, religious rulings, past riots, and administrative matters instead of providing constructive criticism on the budget or proposing strategies for its improvement.

Opposition members criticised the budget, highlighting its shortcomings and proposing corrective measures to steer different sectors in the right direction. Conversely, treasury legislators defended the budget initially, urging the government to prioritize addressing other pressing issues they deemed essential.

The discussion frequently veered off track and became contentious, particularly when a PMLN lawmaker labeleld a prisoner from Adiyala Jail (allegedly referring to Imran Khan) as a ‘traitor’.

This led to chants and counter-chants between the opposition and treasury benches, resulting in disruptions to the proceedings.

After objectionable remarks were expunged from the record, Opposition leader Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar cautioned that his party's members might lose patience if the situation persisted.

Highlighting various concerns, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmaker Zakia Shahnawaz called for unity among lawmakers from both sides to focus on national interests instead of engaging in political mudslinging.

The session also saw discussions on religious issues, community grievances, and proposals for combating corruption and improving various sectors including health, education, and agriculture.

While opposition lawmakers critiqued the budget, highlighting loopholes and proposing sectoral improvements, treasury legislators defended it and called for attention to other pressing issues.

The discourse often derailed, with tensions escalating, particularly when accusations were hurled at prominent figures.

Despite efforts to maintain order, objectionable language led to disruptions, prompting warnings from opposition leaders. Concerns were raised about the constitutionality of passing the budget under a caretaker government, adding fuel to the already fiery debate.

Agriculture emerged as a focal point, with lawmakers emphasizing the need for comprehensive policies to address issues like wheat shortages and farmer welfare. Criticism of past governance and calls for anti-corruption measures underscored the deep-seated issues facing the nation.

While some lawmakers urged unity and cooperation to steer the country forward, others exploited religious and community issues for political gain.

Graveyard shortages for minority communities and calls for legislative action against corruption further added to the complexity of discussions.

Despite the chaos, calls for progress in healthcare, education, sanitation, and other sectors resonated among lawmakers. However, the session concluded with no tangible resolutions, highlighting the challenges in steering the nation towards stability and development.

In his closing remarks, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan adjourned the House until March 25, urging lawmakers to work collaboratively towards the betterment of the country.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 23^rd, 2024.