Pakistan’s federal government has raised the salaries of federal ministers and ministers of state by 188%, aligning them with parliament members’ pay, through a presidential ordinance issued on Sunday. Effective January 1, 2025, the move has sparked debate over public spending priorities.
President Asif Zardari signed the Federal Ministers and Ministers of State Salary and Benefits Amendment Ordinance 2025, setting ministers’ salaries at Rs519,000, matching those of assembly members. Federal ministers’ pay jumped from Rs200,000 to Rs519,000, while ministers of state saw an increase from Rs180,000 to Rs519,000. The federal cabinet approved the 188% hike in March, with officials citing the need to standardise government remuneration.
Read: Pakistan Senate to Increase Salary of Senator to Rs519,000 Per Month
The ordinance comes amid economic challenges in Pakistan, raising questions about the timing and scale of the salary increase. Critics argue that public funds should prioritise citizen welfare, while supporters claim the adjustment ensures equitable compensation for government roles. The decision follows broader fiscal discussions, including Pakistan’s IMF-backed economic reforms.
Pakistan’s 188% salary increase for federal ministers and ministers of state, effective January 2025, reflects efforts to standardise government pay but stirs controversy over public spending. As the ordinance takes effect, its impact on public trust and economic policy will be closely watched.
