LAHORE: The political climate in Islamabad is heating up as members of the ruling coalition — particularly the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — openly challenged the federal government’s move to empower the FBR against non-filers in the new budget.
During a National Assembly session on Monday, PPP lawmakers, led by Abdul Qadar Patel and Nabeel Gabol, strongly criticized provisions allowing FBR officers to arrest individuals without consent from the Income Tax Commissioner. They called the measures “unconstitutional” and unfair, arguing that punitive actions against non-filers would undermine the fundamental rights of ordinary citizens.
Some lawmakers dismissed the budget as a “complete joke” and a violation of promises made to the people. The PPP insisted it would not blindly back decisions that harm the country’s vulnerable segments, sending a clear warning to its ruling allies.
READ MORE: Dubai launches Phase II of ‘Zero Bureaucracy’ programme
Meanwhile, members of the PML-N and MQM supported the government’s policy, praising the budget as a responsible path forward under challenging economic conditions. They advocated for strengthening revenue collection and improving financial discipline.
This political showdown highlights a delicate balance within the ruling alliance — a “good cop, bad cop” dynamic — where the PPP emphasizes its independence and loyalty to the people, while remaining firmly entrenched in the corridors of power alongside its allies.
As policymakers navigate this controversy, the outcome will affect not only the financial health of Pakistan but also the future stability of its ruling coalition.
Some say the ruling PPP and PML-N are playing a clever “good cop, bad cop” routine — putting on a show of opposition while staying united in power — a tactic designed to appease their voter base without threatening their ruling alliance. Whatever the motives, the political theatre underscores the deep divisions within the government’s ranks — and the growing discontent among the people.
