ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP):Chairman of the Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Tuesday called for stronger parliamentary oversight of public finances, saying an effective scrutiny of the budget was essential for transparency, accountability, and democratic governance. Addressing a knowledge-sharing seminar on strengthening the Senate’s budgetary review, organised by the Senate of Pakistan in collaboration with Forum of Federations and Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services, he said the “power of the …
Gilani calls for stronger Senate role in budget oversight
ISLAMABAD, Jun 09 (APP):Chairman of the Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Tuesday called for stronger parliamentary oversight of public finances, saying an effective scrutiny of the budget was essential for transparency, accountability, and democratic governance.
Addressing a knowledge-sharing seminar on strengthening the Senate’s budgetary review, organised by the Senate of Pakistan in collaboration with Forum of Federations and Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services, he said the “power of the purse” remained Parliament’s oldest and most important responsibility.
Referring to the historical foundations of parliamentary financial oversight, Gilani stressed that public resources must be managed transparently and in the public interest.
The Senate chairman highlighted the upper house’s role in reviewing budgetary matters and said constitutional limitations should be viewed as an opportunity to improve institutional effectiveness.
He added that the Senate’s recommendations on Money Bills played an important role in providing policy guidance and strengthening fiscal oversight.
Recalling the “Eighteenth Constitutional Amendment”, introduced during his tenure as prime minister, Gilani said the reform strengthened the federal spirit of the Constitution and enhanced the Senate’s institutional role.
He also stressed the need for stronger committee oversight, timely access to reliable fiscal data, and greater technical support for lawmakers.
Referring to international best practices, he cited parliamentary budget oversight models he observed during visits to Austria and Ireland.
Gilani expressed confidence that the seminar would help improve the Senate’s budget review process, strengthen committee performance, and enhance parliamentary scrutiny to promote better governance and public trust.
