Former Minister Condemns Pakistan's Budget as 'For the Rich'

Islamabad, Pakistan - June 11, 2025 - Former Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail has sharply criticized the recently announced 2025-26 national budget. In an interview with Aaj News' program "News Insight," Ismail expressed his disapproval, stating, "This budget is designed to benefit the wealthy, while ignoring the needs of ordinary citizens." Ismail's comments have sparked a debate about the budget's impact on Pakistan's economy and its population. The interview highlighted concerns about the budget's potential to exacerbate existing economic inequalities. The Aaj News segment provided a platform for Ismail to detail his concerns and offer alternative policy suggestions. The discussion underscores the importance of public discourse in shaping fiscal policy. Further analysis is needed to assess the long-term effects of the budget on Pakistan's economic landscape.