In Islamabad, Omar Ayub, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, strongly condemned the newly proposed budget for the fiscal year, branding it as “economic terrorism” against the people of Pakistan.
During his address in the National Assembly, Ayub accused Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of collaborating with the IMF to draft the budget. “I have called this budget the work of a hitman. This is economic terrorism against the people of Pakistan,” he asserted.
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Continuing his critique, Ayub highlighted various economic concerns, stating, “First, they imported wheat and now plan to export it. They lack understanding of economic fundamentals. Prices of oil, flour, and the dollar will increase. An economy cannot prosper with a budget that undermines industries. Why are loans being provided to privatized institutions?”
He also questioned the allocation of 30 billion rupees for privatization, pointing out the absence of comprehensive privatization plans. Ayub criticized the perceived lack of rule of law, which he argued hinders investment and economic stability. He further criticized claims that inflation has decreased, calling such assertions baseless.
Turning to other issues, Ayub raised concerns about the state of law and order in the country, alleging intelligence agency interference with the judiciary. He specifically criticized the actions of caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, accusing him of importing wheat worth 450 billion rupees without subsequently purchasing from local farmers.
Ayub emphasized the need for an investigation by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) into alleged profiteering from this import.
