PTI Rejects Federal Budget 2026-27, Calls It a Plan to Protect the Elite

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the main opposition party in the National Assembly, has rejected the federal budget for fiscal year 2026-27, describing it as a plan that benefits the elite while offering little relief to ordinary citizens.

Following the presentation of the Rs18.8 trillion budget in the National Assembly on Friday, PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram criticised the government's economic policies and performance. He argued that despite the government's claim of economic recovery and a projected growth rate of 3.7 percent, the country's economic indicators remain weaker than during PTI's tenure.

Akram said the government was relying heavily on remittances and foreign borrowing while failing to improve the living standards of people inside the country. He claimed poverty had increased and that millions of Pakistanis were struggling to meet basic needs.

The PTI leader also criticised the budget for providing limited relief to the salaried class, which he described as the most heavily taxed segment of society. According to him, rising living costs and reduced purchasing power have made life increasingly difficult for middle-income families.

He further stated that small businesses and traders would face additional pressure through new tax measures, digital invoicing requirements, and stricter monitoring by tax authorities. Akram argued that these policies would burden existing taxpayers rather than expand the tax base.

The PTI also raised concerns over the country's growing debt burden, noting that more than Rs8 trillion has been allocated for debt servicing. According to the party, this leaves fewer resources available for development projects and public welfare.

Criticising the government's privatisation plans, Akram warned that the sale of state-owned entities such as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and power distribution companies could primarily benefit influential groups rather than the general public.

During the National Assembly session, PTI lawmakers staged a protest, raised slogans, displayed placards, and later walked out of the House in opposition to the budget proposals.