Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has stated that within the next 48 hours, his government will unveil a relief plan to address the ongoing nationwide protests stemming from high electricity bills. He assured the public during a conversation with senior journalists at the PM Office.
PM Kakar explained that his administration has conducted a comprehensive review of electricity bills over the past two months. Various institutions were questioned about the extent of their free electricity consumption. He emphasized that the electricity bill issue has been somewhat exaggerated.
He acknowledged that the electricity bills must be settled, and the conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will be upheld. He attributed the elevated bills to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and distribution losses. PM Kakar assured that the government is collaborating with the IMF to address the situation and expressed the belief that the matter doesn’t warrant a complete strike.
Regarding instances of free electricity allocation, he pointed out that no individuals in the military are benefiting from this, as the defense budget covers their electricity expenses. He clarified that even within the judiciary, there are no provisions for free electricity. Within Wapda (Water and Power Development Authority), only a few lower-grade employees receive free electricity, while most higher-ranking officers are provided with free units.
He proposed offering financial support to officers in grades 17-22 instead of free electricity, particularly since most protests involve employees in grades 1-16.
Addressing concerns about the upcoming general elections, PM Kakar assured that the elections would take place as scheduled. However, he emphasized that the authority lies with the Election Commission of Pakistan and they are ready to assist as needed. He stated that the government will adhere to the interpretation given by the Supreme Court regarding election dates.
Demonstrations are fueled by anger over steep electricity tariff hikes and increased taxes across the country.
To provide relief to those affected by high bills, the caretaker government is considering allowing people with bills of up to 400 units to pay in six-month installments.
In a cabinet meeting, the prime minister was briefed on various economic indicators and the need to combat smuggling and illegal foreign exchange activities, given the vulnerability of the national currency.
