PPP raises concerns in crucial budget meeting

Political tensions have heightened in Pakistan as the ruling coalition grapples with the federal budget for 2024-25. A crucial meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari shed light on the growing concerns within the coalition.

Bilawal expressed the PPP's reservations during the meeting, emphasizing the federal government's lack of seriousness towards projects in Sindh, a province governed by the PPP. The PPP also raised issues about being excluded from decision-making processes, particularly regarding the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and budget proposals. Discussions also revolved around the PPP's potential inclusion in the federal cabinet and power-sharing arrangements in Punjab.

The PPP accused the ruling party of not fulfilling agreements made during the coalition government's formation. Prime Minister Shehbaz acknowledged most of the concerns and established committees to address them, with further discussions scheduled for the next day.

Key figures from both the PML-N and PPP attended the meeting, where the PPP assured support for the passage of the federal budget through parliament. While financial matters received PPP's backing, discussions on other political issues remained unresolved.

With less than two weeks left for parliamentary approval, the government is under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to align the budget with its guidelines. Pakistan's request for a new IMF bailout package and the controversial taxation measures proposed in the budget add complexity to the situation as the government strives to meet revenue targets to secure the loan.

The ongoing discussions and negotiations between the ruling coalition and the PPP are crucial for the approval of the federal budget. As Pakistan navigates through these challenges, the outcome of these deliberations will significantly impact the country's financial stability and future development.