Tosha Khana Gift Laws Amendments: Enhancing Transparency and Accountability

The Federal Cabinet has recently made significant changes to the Tosha Khana Gift Laws, which regulate the acceptance and handling of gifts by government officials. According to the new amendments, recipients of gifts are now required to display them prominently within their institution premises instead of keeping them. Proper records must be maintained for shields, souvenirs, and other gifts received.

Moreover, the Cabinet has decided to increase the remuneration of private sector experts responsible for evaluating these gifts. This decision comes after the endorsement of the Tosha Khana Policy 2023 during the previous government's tenure, which limited the value of gifts that could be accepted by top officials to US$300. Gifts exceeding this amount could only be accepted by following a specific procedure.

In recent developments, there have been requests for Presidential Immunity for President Zardari regarding Tosha Khana vehicles, while NAB has sought the acquittal of Nawaz Sharif in a case related to Tosha Khana vehicles.

The amendments to the Tosha Khana Gift Laws mark a significant step towards promoting transparency and accountability in the handling of gifts by government officials. By requiring gifts to be displayed publicly and maintaining proper records, the government aims to ensure that the acceptance of gifts does not compromise the integrity of public office. These changes reflect a commitment to upholding ethical standards and preventing potential conflicts of interest.