KP bill seeks expanded perks, privileges for speaker, deputy speaker

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has proposed legislative amendments to expand perks and privileges for the provincial assembly speaker and deputy speaker, according to a draft proposal.

The draft bill, seen by HUM News English, proposes changes to the 1973 Act to transfer authority over salaries and allowances to a finance committee, which would also decide future increases in salaries for the speaker, deputy speaker and members of the provincial assembly.

It proposes granting the speaker and deputy speaker complete immunity from arrest during their tenure, besides baring law enforcement agencies from conducting raids at their residences.

The draft also suggests that the speaker and deputy speaker would continue to enjoy official privileges even after the dissolution of the assembly.

Under the proposed framework, the finance committee would determine rent and other expenses in case government accommodation is not provided.

The proposal also includes provision of telephone, internet and official mobile phones at offices and residences of the two top officials.

It further proposes state-funded travel for spouses and children during domestic and foreign trips, as well as permission to take two staff members on official visits, with expenses borne by the government.

The speaker and deputy speaker would also be authorised to use helicopters and special aircraft for official duties.

Post-retirement benefits outlined in the draft include a Grade-17 personal secretary, assistant, cook, naib qasid and driver, while former speakers would also be entitled to Category-B security.

Government spokesperson Shafi Jan confirmed the proposed amendments, saying they are currently under consideration and have been referred to the finance committee.

He said the bill is still at the proposal stage and will be presented to the provincial cabinet before being tabled in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly for approval.