Speaking to the media, Malik Bostan said that previously, around 10 million people in Pakistan were earning $3 (about Rs. 1,000) a day—barely enough to afford one meal. However, due to increasing poverty, this number has now risen to 40 million people who can only afford one meal a day. Half of Pakistan’s population used to earn between Rs. 1,200 to Rs. 1,500 (about $4 to $5) daily, which was just enough for two meals. Now, poverty has reached such a level that millions are merely surviving with life hanging by a thread.
He emphasized that those who recklessly spend from the national treasury should only be given allowances, not allowed to enjoy luxuries for free. If they had to pay for electricity, gas, and petrol themselves, they would understand the value of money and the burden of expenses.
Malik Bostan further said that while efforts to stabilize the economy are commendable, controlling expenses is crucial. He criticized the recent massive increases in salaries—by 600% to 1000%—for the Senate Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, and the significant raises for FBR officers, calling it a cruel joke in a country drowning in debt.
Speaking on the dollar rate, he mentioned that earlier, there were concerns that the dollar would rise to Rs. 300 or even Rs. 400, but it is now stable at around Rs. 280 to Rs. 285. He stated that Pakistan’s economy is stabilizing due to control over the exchange rate. A strong rupee symbolizes a strong Pakistan, but unfortunately, we lack trust in our own currency. He stressed the need to strengthen the rupee.
He also pointed out that over 15 million Pakistanis are working overseas and collectively earn around $9 billion. However, only about $4 to $4.5 billion is being sent back to Pakistan, while the rest is kept in Dubai or other countries. If these dollars were brought into Pakistan and the national treasury was not spent recklessly, the country’s economy could move towards real improvement.
