In an unprecedented exchange of words, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and former PML-N stalwarts Miftah Ismail and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi engaged in a heated verbal duel today, condemning the tax-heavy Budget 2024-25 proposed by the Shehbaz Sharif-led administration.
During a joint press conference, Ismail and Abbasi launched scathing criticisms at the government’s fiscal policies, labeling the budget as detrimental to the country’s economic health. Former Prime Minister Abbasi, a vocal critic of the ruling coalition, emphasized the need for tax reforms and denounced what he termed as “misappropriation of funds.”
Abbasi also announced the forthcoming launch of a new political entity, Awaam Pakistan, scheduled for July 6 in Islamabad, with himself as the initial convener.
Meanwhile, Miftah Ismail lambasted the government’s budgetary allocations, alleging excessive spending on what he termed “fake expenditures.” He questioned the wisdom of imposing a 10% surcharge on high-earning individuals, a move he claimed was not recommended by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Read More: PM To Participate In Twin SCO Summits In Kazakhstan
In a swift rebuttal, Information Minister Tarar defended the government’s economic policies, asserting that significant reductions in inflation had been achieved over the past year. He dismissed accusations of financial mismanagement and refuted claims that funds were improperly allocated to Members of the National Assembly (MNAs).
The contentious Budget 2024-25, which proposes increased taxation measures amidst economic challenges, has sparked widespread debate across political circles and the public alike. With tensions escalating, all eyes are now on the upcoming political developments and the potential impact on Pakistan’s economic future.