GUJAR KHAN: Minister of State for Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani on Sunday said the government’s recent reduction in electricity prices reflected its commitment to public relief, crediting long-term planning and successful negotiations with Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

He said the newly-approved IMF programme would be Pakistan’s last, adding the government was working towards sustainable economic independence.

Addressing a public gathering in Dina, Mr Kayani noted that following the elections most political parties were unwilling to take charge due to the country’s severe economic crisis. He said only the PML-N stepped forward during these challenging times to stabilise the economy and steer the country away from default.

He said the tariff cuts would benefit households, farmers, industries, and boost exports with more reductions expected in the coming months. He said the government had shut down inefficient power plants to reduce costs and pass savings on to the public.

Highlighting broader economic recovery, Mr Kayani noted that inflation had declined and the central bank’s policy rate had been slashed from 22pc to 12pc, easing access to credit and encouraging investment. He said global institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, had expressed satisfaction with Pakistan’s economic progress.

He added that petrol prices had also come down and the overall economy was stabilising despite the difficult conditions inherited from the previous administration. He credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif with leading the country towards recovery.

Outlining future initiatives, the minister said the government plans to establish an open electricity market and launch a crackdown on power theft.

He also praised the leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in improving service delivery and advancing development. He emphasised the government’s push for digital governance and financial discipline as part of its broader reform agenda.

Lambasting the PTI, the minister said the party used to demand in-camera briefing on country’s security situation but had deliberately skipped high-level parliamentary national security committee meeting held last month that showed its non-seriousness on national issues.

Published in Dawn, April 7th, 2025