Ahmed Mukhtar Naqshbandi
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday unveiled austerity measures finalized during a federal cabinet meeting as the country is grappling with economic challenges, inflation has skyrocketed, the rupee has plummeted and the economy can no longer afford imports.
Addressing a press conference flanked by the senior leadership of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), the prime minister announced that the ministers and adviser to the premier have voluntarily decided not to take salaries from the government in order to save millions from the national exchequer.
The prime minister said that austerity measures were a priority for the coalition government, and the current situation also demands the nation as a whole cut down their expenses and move towards a simple lifestyle.
He noted that ministers, advisers, and bureaucrats would have to take the lead in adopting austerity measures — in a bid to promote the values.
PM Shehbaz Sharif on government’s policy to deal with economic challenges
“The Pakistani government is utilizing all resources to deal with the economic challenges,” he said, informing that the cabinet members would travel in economy class instead of business during his trips abroad.
Some major austerity measures:
The prime minister announced that all federal ministers, state ministers, advisers, and special assistants have decided to voluntarily not take their salaries.
All ministers will pay their power, telephone, water, and gas bills through their own resources.
All luxury cars will be taken back from cabinet members and will be auctioned.
When necessary, ministers will be provided one vehicle for security.
Government officials will travel in economy class and their assistants will not go with them on official tours.
