Interim cabinet commits to reduce government spending

ISLAMABAD: The maiden meeting of the federal cabinet on Friday resulted in a decision to restrict spending by the interim government due to prevailing economic conditions.

According to Dawn.com, the cabinet acknowledged the significance of responsible financial management, and highlighted its responsibilty to utilise taxpayers’ funds carefully.

The media reports said that caretaker Prime Minister (PM) Anwaarul Haq Kakar, addressing the meeting, emphasised that while Pakistan faced substantial economic challenges, the interim administration aimed to uphold financial discipline.

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“We hold the value of taxpayers’ money in high regard, evident in convening this meeting and partaking in these discussions over refreshments,” Kakar stated.

The interim premier affirmed that citizens’ tax contributions were intended to facilitate effective governance and ensure a secure environment.

“Throughout our limited tenure, be it a month, two, three, or the designated timeframe, our commitment will be manifested not just in words but in tangible actions,” he added.

Meanwhile, the cabinet refrained from determining the exact date for national elections, recognising that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) held exclusive authority over the process. However, PM Kakar acknowledged that the interim administration possessed a limited mandate to serve the nation.

Furthermore, the meeting pledged to uphold commitments established by the previous government on both national and international fronts. The cabinet expressed dedication to the rule of law and financial prudence during the interim period.

“Conducting general elections is the prerogative of the ECP, and the federal government is dedicated to assisting the commission in fulfilling this duty,” stated interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi during a post-meeting press briefing.

The reports said that Solangi also highlighted his meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, highlighting  the government’s commitment to supporting the commission’s efforts for free and fair elections.

Furthermore, Solangi, while addressing the recent petroleum price hike,  justified the action and cited constraints imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement.

“We cannot afford to purchase petroleum products at raised rates and distribute them at subsidiSed prices. The IMF pact prohibits such subsidies,” he clarified.

Solangi also acknowledged the reality of poverty and inflation, with the government’s hands tied by IMF obligations.

In response to a query about court cases involving PTI leadership, Solangi pointed out that the matter was under judicial consideration. He clarified that the interim government was not involved in these cases, as relevant institutions executed their duties in accordance with the law.

Solangi reaffirmed the interim government’s stance on preserving media freedom and pledged efforts to safeguard freedom of expression.