Budget 2025-26 Waiting for Imran Khan’s Approval- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has postponed the approval of its 2025-26 budget, valued at over Rs2.1 trillion, until Monday, June 23, to seek the consent of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.

The decision reflects the significant influence Imran Khan holds over the provincial government’s decisions, as PTI leadership insists on his approval before moving forward.

KP Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati announced that the budget would not be passed without Imran Khan’s explicit permission, citing instructions from Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. The chief minister has expressed frustration over being denied meetings with Imran Khan in jail, raising concerns about potential federal intervention if the budget process stalls further. This delay has sparked debates, with some alleging it could be part of a broader strategy to challenge the provincial government’s stability.

The proposed budget is described as tax-free and development-focused, aiming to address financial challenges while prioritizing the needs of merged tribal districts. However, opposition lawmakers have criticized the PTI-led government for low spending on development and a rising provincial debt, which reportedly increased from Rs150 billion in 2013 to Rs800 billion by 2025. They also highlighted that only 14% of the Rs326 billion allocated for education in 2024-25 was utilized, leaving significant funds unspent.

Sentiment on X reflects mixed reactions. Some users praise the KP government’s loyalty to Imran Khan, viewing the delay as a stand against external pressure. Others question Chief Minister Gandapur’s decision to proceed with budget discussions despite Khan’s directive to consult him first, suggesting a potential rift within PTI ranks.

The delay underscores Imran Khan’s enduring influence over KP’s governance, even from behind bars, as the province navigates economic constraints and political tensions. The budget’s fate now hinges on his approval, with the assembly set to reconvene on Monday to finalize the process.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, June 21st, 2025

Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.