IN an irresponsible decision, the gover-nment expanded the size of the cabinet to include more ministers and ministers of state. Rather than expanding, the government has, in fact, doubled the size of the federal cabinet, with a few new advisers and special assistants also jumping on to the bandwagon. Was this expansion really necessary in the prevailing economic situation?

Surprisingly, the decision was taken when the International Monetary Fund (IMF) team was due to visit the country for an official review of government performance. Lenders like the IMF, World Bank and donor agencies generally look into such government expenditure closely, but the government still decided to set aside its own austerity policy at a time when the nation cannot afford a bloated cabinet as it is a burden on every single citizen.

The government move is like adding insult to injury for low-income salaried class. At present, they are struggling to make ends meet amid economic hardship. People are paying high taxes, and high prices for even the most essential of items. Their purchasing power has gone down drastically.

It is obvious that this expansion of the cabinet has increased government exp-enditure. These newly-inducted cabinet members will enjoy protocol, salaries, perks and privileges, allowances, and much else. Operational cost will be increased manifold to pay salaries of their staff. Thus, it will place an additional load on our strained fiscal resources.

The government decision has sent a troubling message that those who are in power hardly care for the people. This also negates hollow promises of austerity. Seeing the current situation, one would have wished that the ruling elite would realise financial constraints, but that is not the case. The government should focus on rightsizing and stopping wasteful spending instead of taking reckless steps.

Dr Alfred Charles
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 24th, 2025