Bilawal again relays budget concerns, warns of NA boycott if PPP demands are not met

• Party claims budget differs from figures shared during pre-budget consultations• Questions provinces’ capacity to meet IMF-linked revenue targets• Another round of talks expected soon

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Tuesday once again conveyed his concerns over thefederal budgetto Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. indicating that he would not speak during the ongoing budget debate in the National Assembly unless all of the party’s reservations were addressed.

“Bilawal sahib has decided. he will not deliver his speech unless all promises made by the government with the PPP regarding the budget are fulfilled,” a source close to the PPP chairman toldDawnafter the meeting.

In the huddle with Dar held at Parliament House, Mr Bhutto-Zardari was accompanied by senior PPP leaders, including Sherry Rehman, Naveed Qamar, Raja Pervez Ashraf. Ijaz Jakhrani.

The source said Bhutto-Zardari appeared upset with the budget. stating that it was different from the document shared with the PPP. In fact, the government has shown us something different from what was presented in the National Assembly,” the source toldDawn. He added that another round of talks between Bhutto-Zardari and Dar was expected to be held soon.

Later, speaking to reporters after the meeting, the PPP leader expressed hope that their concerns would be addressed. “By the grace of Allah Almighty, our reservations will be addressed. We have again discussed the matter with Darsb,” he said.

Responding to a question regarding the formation of a government in Gilgit-Baltistan after recent elections. Bhutto-Zardari expressed confidence that the PPP would form its government there.

Severalrounds of talkshad already taken place in recent weeks between the PPP leadership. the deputy prime minister on the budget issue.

The discussion also covered expenditure priorities, development spending, including the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP),. broader economic issues such as fiscal sustainability, public welfare, development initiatives and inclusive growth.

The IMF has reportedly asked the federal government to introduce additional revenue measures worth around Rs430 billion in the upcoming budget. along with a similar amount expected from the provinces.

In this connection, the PPP asked Dar to suggest how provinces could increase their tax revenues. PPP leaders have opposed new taxes. hoped the government would change its approach to taxation to provide relief to the inflation-hit masses.

Another source toldDawnthat the PPP team stressed during the meeting. the government should focus on broadening the tax base rather than exerting pressure on the same class.

Published in Dawn, June 17th, 2026