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In a scathing critique of the government’s budget proposals, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) MNA Shazia Marri has demanded that the upcoming federal budget provide substantial relief to the masses, accusing the ruling party of sidelining its key coalition partner during the budget-making process.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Sunday, Marri expressed disappointment that the government had failed to take the PPP into confidence while finalizing the budgetary measures. “We were not taken on-board in the budget-making process,” she said, adding that the party had earlier hoped the budget would offer much-needed relief to the people.
Marri’s remarks come amid growing tensions between the PPP and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led government. The PPP, a major partner in the ruling coalition, has accused the government of not fulfilling the terms of their post-election agreement, particularly with regard to the allocation of development funds and power-sharing in Punjab.
Addressing the National Assembly, Marri stated that the provinces were performing well and should be allowed to discharge their duties without interference. She warned that issues would never be resolved if the government continued to claim that “all was good.”The PPP leader also expressed concern over the government’s silence on the recent tragic incidents in Sargodha and Swat, which she described as “worrisome.”Marri further criticized the government’s budgetary proposals, particularly the plan to increase the petroleum levy, which she said would only add to the burden on the masses. She called for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to focus on non-taxpayers instead of burdening the already struggling citizens.
Marri’s remarks echo the PPP’s longstanding demand for the government to prioritize the needs of the common people in the budget. The party has been vocal in its criticism of the government’s economic policies, which it claims have failed to provide relief to the masses.
The PPP’s dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the budget process has raised concerns about the stability of the ruling coalition. As the budget session continues, the party’s support will be crucial for the government to secure the passage of its fiscal proposals.