In Islamabad, the Senate witnessed a tumultuous session as the Chairman halted the voting results on a motion to consider the State Bank of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill immediately. The bill, presented by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Mohsin Aziz, faced opposition from government ministers, while members from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Balochistan Awami Party (BAP) lent their support.
Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Pervaiz Malik emphasized that, according to Article 74 of the Constitution, federal government consent is mandatory for amendments to the State Bank’s legislation. He expressed surprise at the bill’s inclusion on the agenda without government approval.
Senator Mohsin Aziz argued that the bill is not a financial measure but aims to address concerns of private businesses in smaller provinces that feel disadvantaged compared to regions like Punjab. The Legal Minister suggested deferring the bill to seek government consent. However, opposition leader Syed Shibli Faraz insisted that the bill is unrelated to Article 74 and demanded the chairman disclose the voting results.
Following persistent protests from opposition members, the session was adjourned until Tuesday. Additionally, the Senate passed an amendment bill to raise the salaries and allowances of parliamentarians, allowing senators to receive a monthly salary exceeding PKR 500,000.
In other news, significant developments include calls for an investigation into the Bétharam scandal involving François Bayrou, threats against Wikipedia volunteers by a journalist attempting to reveal their identities, the European Union’s commitment to maintaining pressure on Russia over the Ukraine conflict, and the approval of a social security budget to enhance healthcare facilities and implement tax reforms. Meanwhile, a plane crash at Toronto Airport left 18 injured, with details emerging.
