A major political and constitutional debate has emerged in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after the provincial assembly re-passed amendments to the Public Financial Management (PFM) law, despite objections raised by Faisal Karim Kundi.
The revised law significantly reduces the role of the Controller General of Accounts (CGA), removing its authority over accounting, financial oversight, and expenditure authorisation in the province. These powers have now largely been transferred to the provincial finance department.
The governor had earlier returned the bill, calling the amendments a “fundamental reconfiguration” of the financial governance framework and warning that they could disrupt constitutional checks and balances. However, the assembly moved forward and passed the bill again without incorporating those concerns.
Opposition lawmakers, including Ahmad Karim Kundi, criticised the move, arguing that it weakens transparency and accountability. They warned that the amendments could face legal challenges and should have been debated more thoroughly.
On the other hand, Babar Saleem Swati defended the decision, stating that the legislation had been under discussion for over a year and that relevant stakeholders were consulted.
Experts believe the changes aim to centralise financial control within the provincial government. However, critics argue that removing independent oversight mechanisms like the CGA could reduce transparency and create risks in financial management.
The development is expected to intensify legal and political debates, as constitutional experts review whether the amendments align with Pakistan’s established financial governance structure.
