Pakistan NA Faces Rs127M MNA Salary Dilemma

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A financial dilemma is unfolding in the National Assembly as 18 lawmakers, recently reinstated to reserved seats, await clarity over the release of their unpaid salaries accumulated during a year-long suspension.

These members of the National Assembly (MNAs) were de-notified on May 13, 2024, following a ruling by the Supreme Court. However, the court reversed its earlier decision on July 2, 2025, reinstating all 18 members, including 15 women and 3 minority representatives.

The National Assembly Secretariat is now assessing whether these legislators are eligible to receive backdated salaries for the period they were out of office. A formal request for financial guidance has been submitted to the Finance Department, with a decision likely during the ongoing parliamentary session, pending approval from the Speaker.

As of January 2025, the monthly salary for an MNA is reported to be Rs 730,000. If back pay is granted, each reinstated member could receive up to Rs7.1 million in arrears. The total financial outlay, if approved, would reach approximately Rs 127.8 million, a significant burden on public funds.

This situation raises broader questions about the handling of parliamentary suspensions and reinstatements. The reversal by the Supreme Court not only restored the political standing of these MNAs but also triggered a costly administrative process.

While the legal right to reinstatement has been confirmed, the financial implications remain unresolved. Government officials have yet to clarify whether pay should be issued retroactively for a period during which these lawmakers were not actively serving or attending sessions.

This case highlights the complexity of Pakistan’s parliamentary and legal systems, especially concerning reserved seats and the role of the judiciary in overturning earlier decisions. The final ruling by the Finance Department and National Assembly leadership will set a precedent for similar cases in the future.

The situation continues to unfold, and many within the Assembly are closely watching the outcome, especially as it may influence future debates over fiscal responsibility and legislative procedures.