Before the announcement of the Federal Budget 2025–2026, one announcement by the government captured the attention — and concern — of the public more than any other: a staggering 500 percent increase in the salaries of the parliamentarians.

On the contrary, the government announced a modest 10 percent increase in the salaries of government servants and a 7 percent raise in pensions of the retired employees in the recently unveiled Federal Budget for 2025–26.

The stark contrast between these figures has sparked widespread debate across Pakistan, both in political circles and among ordinary citizens struggling with rising inflation and economic uncertainty.

The news of such an enormous increase for the parliamentarians was met with a mixture of disbelief, frustration, and anger. At a time when the economy is under significant strain, and the common man is experiencing high utility bills, petrol prices, food inflation, and stagnant incomes, the decision appears to many as disconnected from ground realities. For a nation that is still heavily reliant on international loans and budgetary support, including from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the idea of parliamentarians receiving five times their previous salaries sends a message that appears insensitive to the financial hardships facing the average Pakistani.

The justification given by some government officials is that the parliamentarians have not received substantial salary increases for several years. They argue that the revised salaries are more in line with the standards of other countries, especially within the region. Moreover, they suggest that higher pay will reduce the incentive for corruption and attract more competent individuals into politics. While this may sound logical on paper, critics argue that the timing and scale of the increase are both highly inappropriate.........

© The Friday Times