Amidst unprecedented challenges, the allocation of scarce resources by elected representatives tasked with government spending decisions demands a heightened sense of responsibility to prioritize the public good.
In a truly civilized nation, such a commitment would be a fundamental principle of ethical and responsible leadership. However, in Pakistan, the economic challenges persist, exacerbated by a leadership class whose self-centeredness seems boundless.
A recent report, published on Thursday, has brought into focus the manipulative tactics employed by the former PDM-led government to ensure ongoing political benefits from public funds even after their replacement by the caretaker set-up in August.
What's alarming is the apparent complicity of the interim set-up, allowing disproportionate spending on discretionary projects to continue unchecked.
According to data from the Planning Commission, parliamentary pet schemes consumed the largest portion of spending on the Federal Public Sector Development Programme between July and October 2023.
The numbers are staggering, highlighting a glaring conflict of interest. By the end of October, these pet schemes had consumed over 30% of the Rs90bn budget allocated for the entire year.
For perspective, consider the PSDP program for AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan, and ex-Fata, which utilized only 15% of its budget in the same period.
Further context reveals that disbursements authorized for ministries, divisions, and corporations in the same period amounted to a mere 8.6% of their yearly budget. The question arises: Why the urgency in allocating funds to these discretionary schemes?
The answer lies in electoral motives. Traditionally, these schemes serve as a tool for politicians to garner goodwill within their constituencies. In the wake of the PDM government's economic struggles, politicians are desperate to showcase their ability to 'deliver,' prompting the resort to such tactics.
Yet, amidst the economic hardships faced by the majority, exploiting the exchequer as an election fund is disconcerting. Major infrastructural projects have been sidelined due to financing shortfalls over the past two years. In these conditions, diverting funds to hyper-localized projects for political gains is not only imprudent but unjust. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) must take note and necessary action to prevent the misuse of public funds.