ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) has formally demanded the chairmanship of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), marking a significant development in the ongoing political standoff over the position. In a letter addressed to National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, a senior PPP leader, emphasized the party’s desire to take charge of the PAC, a key parliamentary body responsible for scrutinizing government expenditures.

Mandviwalla’s letter also highlighted a requisition submitted by 11 PAC members, urging the Speaker to facilitate a meeting on the matter. The PPP has hinted that it may take matters into its own hands if the Speaker delays convening the session. “If the meeting is not called promptly, we may consider calling a session independently,” Mandviwalla stated in the letter, signaling the party’s frustration with the prolonged leadership vacuum in the committee. In addition to requesting a meeting, Mandviwalla also suggested that the Speaker support the election of an interim chairman until a permanent chairperson is selected. This move aims to break the deadlock that has stalled the functioning of the PAC since March 2024. The PPP has pushed for the position, asserting that it is their rightful claim, especially given the importance of the PAC in holding the government accountable.

Meanwhile, the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has strongly backed Sheikh Waqas Akram for the PAC chairmanship, adding to the complexity of the situation. PTI’s stance has been a key factor in the delay, with the party continuing to push for Akram despite the growing support for PPP’s claim.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), a key player in the ruling coalition, has signaled support for the PPP’s demand for the PAC chairmanship. This development has further complicated the already tense political landscape, as the standoff over the PAC leadership has stretched on for months. The failure to resolve this issue has raised concerns about the proper functioning of parliamentary oversight in the country.

As the impasse continues, all eyes are on Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, whose next move could determine whether the PPP or another party assumes control of the important committee.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 21 2024

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