The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government on Friday withdrew the proposed amendments to the Members of the Provincial Assembly Privileges Act, including a provision seeking blue passports for lawmakers and their family members, following strong criticism on social media.
Proposed Amendments and Backlash
The proposed amendments to the law governing the salaries and privileges of members of the K-P Assembly had sought to introduce new benefits, including the facility of blue passports for legislators and their families. However, the proposed changes triggered widespread opposition on social media, with many users criticizing the move as an unnecessary privilege for already well-compensated public representatives.
Government Response
In response to the criticism, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi directed that the amendments be withdrawn. In a video message issued alongside other members of the provincial cabinet, Information Minister Shafi Jan said a meeting of the provincial cabinet was held under the chairmanship of Afridi, while Speaker Babar Saleem Swati attended via video link. Jan said that, on the chief minister's instructions and after consultation with the provincial assembly speaker, it had been decided to withdraw all objectionable provisions of the bill. He added all controversial clauses would be corrected in accordance with the 1988 Act.
Details of the Decision
The decision to withdraw the amendments was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by CM Afridi. The information minister confirmed that the withdrawal was immediate and that the bill would be revised to align with the original 1988 Privileges Act. The move is seen as a response to public sentiment and an effort to maintain transparency in governance.
