Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has clarified that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif holds the final authority on the PTI demand to arrange a meeting with jailed party founder Imran Khan before the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government releases additional funds to the federal government. Speaking on a popular television program, Aurangzeb emphasized that the KP government has no objection in principle to cutting development spending in order to support the Centre.
The finance minister praised the strong cooperation shown by all provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, throughout the ongoing IMF programme. He recalled a productive meeting with KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam, noting that this unified support has been crucial for Pakistan’s engagement with international lenders. Aurangzeb made it clear that while provinces are ready to contribute, the sensitive political request regarding Imran Khan can only be addressed by the Prime Minister himself.
This development follows strong statements from PTI Secretary General Barrister Salman Akram Raja. Raja announced that the KP government would only approve a three-month budget paper if the meeting with Imran Khan does not take place before June 30. He stressed that the full budget would not be presented without proper consultation with the party founder. Raja also pointed out that Article 125 of the Constitution clearly permits the presentation of a short-term budget.
Imran Khan has been in jail since August 2023 following convictions that PTI leaders describe as politically motivated. Despite several legal challenges and some suspended sentences, his cases remain under review. The former prime minister continues to deny all wrongdoing.
The current situation highlights the complex balance between political negotiations and economic responsibilities. The federal government is working hard to maintain fiscal discipline and meet IMF targets, while the PTI is using its position in KP to press for political concessions. Finance Minister Aurangzeb’s remarks suggest the door for dialogue remains open, but the ultimate decision rests with the Prime Minister.
This ongoing discussion between the Centre and the province will significantly influence Pakistan’s economic stability and political landscape in the coming weeks. Both sides appear willing to cooperate on financial matters while carefully navigating the political demands.
