By Uzma Ehtasham
It is rare to witness a genuine engagement by parliament with the pressing issues that affect the public; legislative chambers often seem preoccupied with the political interests of those within them. However, in a noteworthy departure from this trend, Pakistan’s National Assembly saw members openly express their concern about the ever-increasing inflation during a session on Wednesday. The level of urgency displayed by the lawmakers is a glimmer of hope that perhaps a change in priorities is on the horizon. During the question period, Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervaiz Malik assured the Assembly that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself is actively overseeing measures to curb inflation, reflecting a recognition at the highest levels of government that this issue demands immediate attention. Assembly member Syed Fazal Ali Shah took the opportunity to call for a reduction in electricity prices, a pressing concern for many citizens grappling with high utility bills.
In response, Malik noted that a task force has been assigned to investigate this issue, hinting at potential improvements to come. Assembly member Shazia Sobia raised a critical question regarding the overall inflation rate, spotlighting the soaring prices of essential goods, including fruits, vegetables, and medicines. Malik responded with a degree of optimism, stating that inflation, which had reached a distressing 38 percent last year, has now receded to 7 percent. While this statistic may suggest progress, it also raises questions about the lingering high prices that continue to burden everyday citizens. The notion that the rate of increase has slowed offers little solace to those struggling to afford basic necessities. On the topic of boosting exports, Parliamentary Secretary for Commerce Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti articulated the government’s intention to expand exports and reduce imports as a strategy for sustainable economic growth.
This plan, if effectively executed, holds the promise of stabilizing Pakistan’s struggling economy. However, the execution of such strategies remains fraught with challenges, and the success of these initiatives will depend on political will and a genuine commitment to prioritizing the public good over political gain. While it is heartening to see legislators voice these concerns, history warns us that parliamentary discussions on the cost of living can often appear to be mere lip service if they are not backed by concrete action. For too long, parliamentarians have found common ground primarily around their own benefits, leaving the welfare of the public sidelined. If they are indeed awakening to the plight of the people, this newfound awareness must translate into practical steps and legislative measures that deliver tangible relief to citizens. The real test lies ahead, as the government must deliver substantive solutions rather than empty promises. As the nation’s most vulnerable citizens continue to grapple with relentless inflation, mere parliamentary debate is insufficient.
True relief will come only when the rhetoric of promises is transformed into policies that resonate in households across the country. Until that transformation occurs, discussions on inflation in the National Assembly remain as fruitless as they are fleeting, leaving the populace to wonder if their concerns will ever be met with the seriousness they deserve. In this context, the stakes have never been higher. The pressure on lawmakers to act decisively is palpable, as the public increasingly demands accountability. If parliamentarians can harness this moment of urgency to enact meaningful reforms, they have the potential to reshape the discourse around inflation and the cost of living in Pakistan. However, the path to such transformation is fraught with complexity, requiring not just legislative action but also a robust engagement with the realities faced by ordinary citizens. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether this moment of parliamentary concern will translate into lasting change or fade into the background noise of political discourse.
(The writer is a public health professional and possesses expertise in health communication, having keen interest in national and international affairs, can be reached at uzma@metro-morning.com)
