A heated exchange took place between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and PTI Senator Shibli Faraz during a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Saleem Mandviwala.
The discussion turned contentious as both leaders traded barbs over the country’s economic challenges and past governance.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb criticized the economic decisions made during the 2021 cabinet, claiming they tarnished Pakistan’s reputation and exacerbated the country’s financial difficulties.
“It is on record that the country’s reputation was damaged by the cabinet decisions in 2021. Today, we are working to repair that damage,” he said. The minister added that the government is avoiding unsustainable growth strategies, noting, “Three years ago, the growth accelerator was pressed, leading to pressure on the balance of payments. We are now cautious about how much we press the accelerator. We are completely dependent on the IMF.”
Senator Shibli Faraz responded sharply, accusing the minister of fixating on the last three years while ignoring systemic issues spanning decades. “Why are you stuck on the last three years? Why don’t we talk about the misgovernance of 70 years?” he questioned.
Faraz further criticised the current government’s lack of a coherent economic strategy. “You speak of a 6% growth rate, but there’s no plan in sight,” he said, defending the policies of the previous government.
The finance minister countered by emphasizing the unmet promises of the previous administration. “We mention the past because you do not fulfil your promises,” he said, adding that the current government is taking steps to stabilize the economy and rebuild international trust.
