Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Umar Ayub expressed strong disapproval of the newly presented federal budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, calling it meaningless and a violation of constitutional norms.
Speaking to media, Ayub, who has previously presented four budgets in the National Assembly, voiced his concerns regarding the budget’s legitimacy and content.
He pointed out procedural issues, stating, “Neither a CD was provided nor was the budget written in English, which is a first in this parliament.” He emphasized that the Finance Minister’s speech lacked transparency and failed to present accurate records.
Rejecting the budget entirely, the opposition leader labeled it a “fake budget by a fake government,” arguing that it does not reflect the country's true growth rate. He highlighted the plight of Punjab farmers, mentioning that their wheat crops are burning while the government remains unresponsive.
Ayub also criticized the industrial growth claims made by the government. “They say that the production of the industry has increased, but where is this production?” he questioned. He further noted that electricity prices have surged by Rs 3.50 per unit recently, adding to the public’s financial burden.
The opposition leader accused the government of lacking consultation and transparency. He raised concerns about Mohsin Naqvi, alleging that Naqvi failed to submit his tax returns, and criticized the government’s handling of trade with Iran, suggesting that rice would be smuggled out of the country.
He condemned the actions of the Punjab Police in Mianwali, where a judge was allegedly surrounded, and his orders to release prisoners’ handcuffs were ignored. “Anarchy is spreading in the country,” Ayub warned, blaming the government for the increasing instability.
He concluded by accusing the PPP of betrayal and questioned the overall governance and administrative decisions of the current regime.
