The possible new finance minister of Pakistan, Miftah Ismail, seems uncertain about the increase in the wages of government employees following a statement passed by PM Shehbaz in his blasting speech in the National Assembly on Monday.
In his maiden speech, PM Shehbaz Sharif announced to increase the salaries of the government employees by 10% who are earning up to Rs100,000 per month. The news of the salary increase was well-received and widely shared by the people on social media.
PM Sharif also announced to increase the minimum wage rate by Rs.25000. An increase in the pensions of retired civil, and military officials by 10% from April 1 is also part of his immediate economic package
On Tuesday, Miftah Ismail seemed reluctant to increase the salaries of government employees. He said the government will review the decision in the budget. Ismail added that they will discuss the salary issues of the government employees.
Criticism poured in on social media for retracting the decision. Media person, Shahzad Iqbal said: “Is this the 1st U-Turn of the new government?? The decision didn’t make any sense as well when in the same speech PM SS criticised that Fiscal deficit will be record high this year.”
There is no U-turn. Since fed govt employees’ salaries were raised a couple of months ago, we are not raising them again. However their salary issues will be considered in the next budget. Meanwhile we raised pensions of retired govt employees. I hope this clarifies any confusion https://t.co/3V84EFufCm
— Miftah Ismail (@MiftahIsmail) April 13, 2022
This isn't U Turn.
This is just a Post Facto Review of Decision.Let's not over complicate things. Guys. https://t.co/aLL0uSEs0y
— Adeel Azhar (@adeel_azhar) April 13, 2022
Miftah Ismail’s response
Responding to his tweet he said: “There is no U-turn. Since fed govt employees’ salaries were raised a couple of months ago, we are not raising them again. However, their salary issues will be considered in the next budget. Meanwhile, we raised the pensions of retired govt employees. I hope this clarifies any confusion.”
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Netizens are, however, mocking the new government for reversing the decision. Former CM Punjab Usman Buzdar also denounced PM Shehbaz Sharif in his tweet.
Buzdar said: “Last year, the PTI government increased salaries by 35%, including a 10% increase in basic pay and a 25% disparity / special allowance. This year, a further 15% increase was announced in the federation and 15% was announced.”
He claims that the PTI government inherited a government with an unstable economy. But with dedication and excellent policies, the government stabilized the economy under the leadership of Imran Khan. Buzdar added that nation will not let the new government undo the economic achievements of Imran Khan.