ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani on Thursday said that 56 senators participated in the budget debate, reflecting the Upper House's strong commitment to meaningful parliamentary oversight of public finances. In his concluding remarks after Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb wrapped up the budget debate in the Senate, the Chairman said that members from across the political spectrum had actively contributed their perspectives, recommendations, and concerns, ensuring comprehensive …
Yousuf Gillani hails robust Senate participation in Budget Debate
ISLAMABAD, Jun 18 (APP):Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani on Thursday said that 56 senators participated in the budget debate, reflecting the Upper House’s strong commitment to meaningful parliamentary oversight of public finances.
In his concluding remarks after Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb wrapped up the budget debate in the Senate, the Chairman said that members from across the political spectrum had actively contributed their perspectives, recommendations, and concerns, ensuring comprehensive and transparent scrutiny of the budget.
He said the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue and the Senate Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives carried out detailed deliberations on the Finance Bill 2026 and the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
“The committees devoted long hours to reviewing proposals submitted by senators, holding extensive deliberations and marathon meetings to evaluate each recommendation on its merits,” he said.
The Chairman said that the committees’ dedicated efforts culminated in a report that was presented to the House, unanimously adopted by the Senate, and subsequently transmitted to the National Assembly for its consideration.
Gillani expressed heartfelt appreciation to all senators for their constructive participation and valuable contributions to the budget process.
He said their efforts had strengthened the quality of parliamentary debate and further enhanced the Senate’s role as a guardian of transparency, accountability, and democratic oversight.
The Chairman also paid tribute to Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue Senator Saleem Mandviwalla and Chairperson Senate Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Senator Qurat-ul-Ain Marri for their leadership and dedication in steering the committees through the budget review process.
He also acknowledged the professionalism and tireless efforts of the Senate Secretariat staff, particularly the officers and officials of the Registration Branch and the Committee Branch, for facilitating the smooth conduct of Senate proceedings and committee meetings throughout the budget session.
The Chairman said these collective efforts had reinforced the Senate’s vital constitutional role in promoting transparency, accountability, and effective parliamentary oversight of the country’s finances.
“The successful completion of the budget review process demonstrates how parliamentary institutions, when functioning effectively, contribute to stronger democratic governance,” he added.
