K-P scraps lifetime perksfor assembly speaker

Backlash forces U-turn on controversial clause

PESHAWAR:

In a significant policy reversal, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has withdrawn a controversial legal provision that sought to grant lifetime perks to its Speaker even after leaving office.

The clause, introduced through an amendment to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker Salaries and Privileges Act, had proposed extending a range of benefits to former Speakers. Under Section 20, the outgoing Speaker would have been entitled to facilities equivalent to a Grade-17 officer, including support staff such as an assistant, cook, driver, and Category-B security.

The move sparked widespread criticism soon after it surfaced, particularly on social media, where citizens questioned the necessity and financial implications of such privileges. The proposal also faced resistance within political circles, including members of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, indicating internal disagreement over the measure.

Following the backlash, a cabinet sub-committee convened to review the matter. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Law Department, Finance Department, and the Assembly Secretariat. According to sources, participants were informed that extending post-retirement benefits to the Speaker was not practical and could place an additional burden on the Assembly's administrative structure by increasing staff requirements.

Sources further revealed that the Speaker himself advised the committee to withdraw the clause in light of the criticism and concerns raised. Acting on this recommendation, the sub-committee decided to abolish Section 20 from the amended law, effectively revoking the proposed lifetime privileges.

The decision has been widely viewed as a response to public sentiment and a step toward fiscal prudence. Observers say the swift rollback reflects the growing influence of public accountability, particularly through digital platforms, in shaping policy decisions.

The development underscores the sensitivity surrounding lawmakers' privileges in the country, where such measures often invite scrutiny amid broader economic challenges. By removing the clause, the provincial government appears to have avoided a potentially contentious issue while reinforcing its commitment to responsible governance.