Arbab writes strong letter to KP Finance Advisor seeking budget details

PESHAWAR, Jun 15 (APP):Chairman of the Provincial Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance, Arbab Usman Khan has sent a strongly worded letter to Finance Adviser Muzammil Aslam, expressing serious concern over the non-availability of budget details and raising a new controversy over the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In his letter, Arbab Usman Khan pointed out that key budget documents and financial details related to the provincial budget have still not been provided, describing the delay as contrary to the principles of transparency, accountability and effective financial oversight.

He stated that the lack of access to budget documents is not only undermining the Assembly’s oversight role but could also jeopardize the timely completion of development projects and public service delivery.

The Finance Committee Chairman warned that delays in budget approval and implementation could adversely affect the pace of development schemes, resulting in negative consequences for public services and the efficient utilization of resources.

He further noted that the failure to utilize funds on time could weaken the governance system, while ineffective use of the development budget may lead to project delays and financial complications.

Arbab Usman Khan urged the Finance Department to immediately share all details of the KP Budget with the Assembly and relevant forums to ensure a transparent and effective budgetary process.

The letter also stressed that the preparation, approval and implementation of the upcoming provincial budget should not face further delays as this could undermine public confidence in the government.

Calling for urgent corrective measures, the committee chairman emphasized that the government must prioritize the broader interests of the province by improving financial management and ensuring timely decision-making.

He added that the public expects effective planning, prompt decisions and visible results from development initiatives and therefore unnecessary delays in the budget process should be avoided.

Seeking an immediate clarification and response from the government and the Finance Department, Arbab Usman Khan concluded that, given the importance of economic activity, development projects and public welfare in the province, the budget process must not be subjected to further delays.