Khaqan Waheed Khawaja, Chairman of Pakistan Awami Quwat, has said that the Federal Budget 2026-27 has failed to meet public expectations.
The Pakistan Awami Quwat leader said that the budget appears to have been formulated largely under IMF conditions and fiscal constraints, prioritizing financial targets over public welfare, inflation relief, and economic growth.
He added that despite soaring inflation, rising unemployment, and mounting challenges for businesses, the government has offered little meaningful relief to the public.
He further said that the limited concessions announced for salaried individuals are insufficient when compared to the economic realities faced by ordinary citizens.
While the government has described the budget as growth- and export-oriented, Waheed argued that it lacks a clear and effective strategy to promote industry, the IT sector, exports, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He also pointed to the absence of concrete measures aimed at attracting foreign investment, strengthening local industries, and stimulating economic activity.
The chairman further criticized the budget for failing to address the concerns of young people, saying it offers no major initiatives for job creation, entrepreneurship, or skills development.
He maintained that although the government may be attempting to stabilize the economy in the short term, the budget does not include the bold reforms needed to reduce debt dependency, ensure sustainable growth, and ease public hardship.
For these reasons, Pakistan Awami Quwat believes the budget does not align with the aspirations of the people or the country’s long-term economic needs.
