The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has amended a contentious draft bill that proposed enhanced perks and privileges for the speaker and deputy speaker, responding to criticism from opposition parties and the public. The documents reveal that the revised legislation aims to modify the existing 1973 law regulating salaries and allowances of provincial lawmakers.
The updated draft, titled the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Speaker and Deputy Speaker Privileges and Benefits Act, 2026, outlines that the speaker would be entitled to two official vehicles, including one armored car. Both the speaker and deputy speaker would have no limits on their electricity and gas bills. Additionally, the speaker would serve as the financial controlling officer for both offices.
Further provisions include monthly medical allowances and comprehensive healthcare for the families of both officeholders, as well as special travel allowances for official foreign visits. Earlier versions of the bill proposing lifetime perks and post-retirement staff for the speaker had provoked strong opposition, leading to the current revisions.
KP Law Minister Aftab Alam clarified that reports about post-retirement privileges were inaccurate, noting the revised draft has been submitted to the provincial cabinet for review. Previously, the draft suggested transferring authority over salaries and allowances to a finance committee, which would also oversee future pay increases for the speaker, deputy speaker, and assembly members.
The bill initially proposed granting both officials immunity from arrest during their tenure and prohibiting law enforcement agencies from conducting raids at their residences. It also stated that some official privileges would persist even after the assembly’s dissolution.
Under the earlier draft, the finance committee would determine rent and related costs if official accommodation was not provided. Telephone, internet, and mobile phone facilities would be funded by the state for both offices. The proposal also included state-covered travel expenses for spouses and children on domestic and international trips, with permission to take two staff members on official journeys.
Moreover, the speaker and deputy speaker would have been authorized to use helicopters and special aircraft for official duties the initial draft. Government spokesperson Shafi Jan confirmed that amendments are being considered and have been referred to the finance committee. He emphasized that the bill is still in the proposal phase and will be presented to the provincial cabinet before being tabled in the assembly for approval.
