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Business Recorder
21 hours ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Only 78 MNAs attend all sittings in 17th budget session: FAFEN
ISLAMABAD: As many as 78 (25 percent) members of the National Assembly (MNAs) attended all sittings, whereas, 10 (three percent) did not attend any sitting during the 17th budget session of the National Assembly that spanned over 13 sittings from June 5 to 27, 2025, a Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN)'s report said on Tuesday. The attendance of members kept fluctuating during the budget session, it added. The budget session began on a high note, with 83 percent attendance recorded during the first sitting when the Finance Bill, 2025, was introduced. However, as the House progressed into the general discussion on the budget, attendance declined, hitting the lowest 57 percent on the third sitting. The attendance resurged again at 79 percent on the final day of the general discussion, which also included deliberations on Senate recommendations and charged expenditures. A remarkable increase was observed towards the end of the session, with attendance rising above 90 percent during the voting on demands for grants and the Finance Bill. The highest attendance was 93 percent recorded on the day the Finance Bill was passed. The lawmakers raised concern on the absence of government ministers during the budget discussion, prompting the chair to direct the government members holding finance-related portfolios to come to the floor of the House. An analysis of the attendance and the leaves applications read during the proceedings shows that 235 members 75 percent of the current strength missed at least one sitting during the session. However, only 79 (34 percent) of them submitted an application seeking leave from the House for their absence. A total of 22 female MNAs including 19 on reserved seats and three on general seats (41 percent of total female membership) attended all sittings. Among seven minority members, all attended more than half of the sittings including three MNAs who have attended all sittings. Regionally, across all provinces, the majority of MNAs attended more than half of the sittings. The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) recorded the highest percentage, with all three of its MNAs attending every session. In Sindh, 68 MNAs (86 percent) attended more than half of the sittings, including 20 who were present at all. Punjab saw 140 MNAs (85 percent) attend more than half of the sittings, with 37 attending every session. From Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 39 MNAs attended more than half of the sittings, including 15 who were present at all. In Balochistan, 15 MNAs (75 percent) participated in more than half of the sittings. The majority of lawmakers from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party Parliamentarians (PPPP), Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQMP), and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) attended more than half of the sittings. The federal minister for Finance and Revenue, who is a senator, attended nine (69 percent) sittings. The minister of State and the Parliamentary Secretary for Finance and Revenue, both of whom are MNAs, were present in 11 sittings (85 percent). Notably, the federal minister for Economic Affairs, also a Senator, did not attend any sitting during the session, despite his portfolio closely related to the issues discussed during the budget session. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Only one in four MNAs attend budget session
A total of 78 Members of the National Assembly (25%) attended all 13 sittings of the 17th (Budget) session held from June 5 to 27, while 10 members (3%) remained absent throughout the session, according to official attendance records. The session began with strong participation — 83% attendance was recorded on the opening day when the Finance Bill 2025 was introduced. However, attendance declined to a session-low of 57% during the third sitting, which featured general budget discussions. Participation gradually recovered, peaking at 93% on the day the Finance Bill was passed. Lawmakers repeatedly voiced concern over the absence of key ministers during budget debates, prompting the Chair to direct relevant finance portfolio holders to attend. Records show that 235 MNAs (75% of the House) missed at least one sitting. Of these, only 79 (34%) formally submitted leave applications — 13 applied in advance, while 46 submitted applications after returning. Twenty lawmakers had their leave requests read mid-absence. Notably, 156 members (66% of absentees) failed to apply for leave altogether. Additionally, six MNAs submitted leave requests for previous sessions. Attendance varied across demographics: Female MNAs: 22 women (41% of all female members) — 19 on reserved and three on general seats — attended all sittings. Minority MNAs: All seven attended more than half the sittings; three attended every session. Male MNAs on general seats: 10 (4%) missed the entire session, 35 (14%) attended less than half, and 208 (82%) were present in more than half of the sittings, including 54 (21%) with full attendance. Regional attendance trends showed Islamabad Capital Territory leading with 100% attendance from all three of its MNAs. Punjab and Sindh followed, with 85% and 86% of MNAs respectively attending more than half of the sittings. In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 39 MNAs participated in over half of the sittings, with 15 attending all. Balochistan recorded 75% attendance in the same category. Party-wise attendance was highest among MNAs from PML-N, PPPP, MQMP, and SIC, most of whom attended more than half of the sittings. The sole MWMP lawmaker marked full attendance. Lawmakers from BAP, NP, and PML-Z were also largely present. However, PKMAP's only representative attended less than half of the session. The "Others" category includes parties with fewer than eight MNAs — such as BAP, MWMP, NP, PKMAP, PML, PML-Z, and IPP. The BNP's sole member has tendered resignation, but it has yet to be officially accepted. To prioritise budget debate, the National Assembly suspended routine proceedings, including Question Hour, Calling Attention Notices (CANs), and public importance matters. This suspension was approved in the second sitting, though only one of seven concerned ministers was present on that day.
Daily Maverick
a day ago
- Politics
- Daily Maverick
Escalating Kenyan unrest marks tense midpoint on road to 2027 elections
Not only are protests in Kenya occurring more often, they are more widespread, spanning regions far beyond the usual centres of political activism like Nairobi, Kisumu or Mombasa. For three consecutive weeks in June and July 2025, Kenya witnessed some of its most sustained and widespread protests in recent memory. On key protest days — particularly on Wednesday 25 June and Monday 7 July — Kenyans took to the streets across the country to once again voice their grievances against President William Ruto, a year after the infamous June/July 2024 unrest that culminated in the storming of Parliament. But this year's unrest has been notably more intense. Protests have extended beyond traditional hotspots, lasted longer and, worryingly, have been marked by a higher degree of violence. As Kenya reaches the halfway point to its 2027 general elections, this shift signals a concerning deterioration in both its political climate and security landscape. Why Kenyans are taking to the streets Several issues are driving the current wave of discontent. Foremost among them are political and socioeconomic grievances, particularly perceived poor governance and heavy-handedness by the current administration, coupled with rising unemployment and living costs. Unlike the June 2024 unrest, which was primarily triggered by the Finance Bill that introduced steep taxes and culminated in the breach of Parliament on the very day the bill was passed, this year's unrest appears to be driven by persistent political grievances and violations of human rights. Public concern over police conduct has continued to grow. One of the key triggers in the latest series of unrest was the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody, followed by the fatal shooting of unarmed civilians, including a street vendor and a 12-year-old girl. Protesters argue that these incidents reflect a broader pattern of impunity among Kenya's security forces — and human rights organisations appear to agree. Organisations like Human Rights Watch have recently called for authorities to be held accountable for such violence. What distinguishes these protests from past movements is their youth-led, decentralised nature. Organised primarily through social media, with hashtags like #RutoMustGo gaining traction, the protests lack formal leadership. While this helps with mobilisation, it presents a challenge to predicting when, where and how they might occur. A surge in unrest What we do know is that the level of protest activity is rising. Kenya has already recorded more protest activity in the first half of 2025 than during the same period in previous years, including during the 2022 election cycle. Not only are protests occurring more often, they are more widespread, spanning regions far beyond the usual centres of political activism like Nairobi, Kisumu or Mombasa. Historically volatile regions such as Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori (in Nyanza) and parts of Mombasa are now being overshadowed by rising tensions in central Kenyan counties — including Kiambu, Murang'a, Embu, Meru, Nyandarua and Laikipia. Central Kenya, which has remained largely peaceful over the past three electoral cycles, is now experiencing increasing volatility. At the same time, the protests have also been sustained, now entering their third week with persistent rumours and indeed fears of further activity. Perhaps most concerning is the rise in violence. Official figures are still emerging, but reports indicate that 52 people have been killed and 1,500 arrested during confrontations with the police in recent weeks. Moreover, some protests have turned destructive, with instances of looting, arson and even sexual violence, including rape, reported during the chaos. Such incidents not only harm communities but also risk undermining the legitimate grievances of the broader movement. Kenyan institutions are also feeling the weight of these protests, with the justice system under growing scrutiny over how it will handle so many cases. Most suspects face serious charges, including terrorism, homicide, robbery with violence, sexual assault, arson, malicious damage to property and attacks on strategic infrastructure; yet, the majority of those arrested — mostly youth aged 18 to 35 — do not have prior criminal records. This has sparked national concern, especially among human rights groups and legal experts who view the charges as potentially disproportionate and politically driven. Perceptions that the government is using the judiciary to suppress dissent and intimidate the youth could trigger further protests. Countdown to 2027 This past week, Kenya took one its first major steps towards organising its next general elections in 2027, appointing a new chairperson and six commissioners for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. However, the road ahead looks far from smooth. If current trends persist, the country may face two more years marked by elevated (violent) protest activity, heightened political tensions, and mounting pressure on state institutions. The first litmus test will be the by-elections that the commission is mandated to host before the 2027 general elections. These elections will give an early indication of political grievances and rivalries, potentially increasing the risk of election-related violence among an already charged population. Addressing the root causes of public frustration and engaging in dialogue with key members of civil society will be critical if Kenya is to avoid further unrest. DM
Hans India
a day ago
- Business
- Hans India
New income tax bill to simplify tax filing for commoners, small businesses: Jay Panda
New Delhi: The new income tax bill will make filing taxes easier for common citizens and small businesses, said BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda, who chaired the Parliamentary Select Committee responsible for reviewing the legislation. Speaking to IANS, he emphasised that the new law, once passed, will simplify India's decades-old tax structure, cut down legal confusion, and help individual taxpayers and MSMEs avoid unnecessary litigation. "The current Income Tax Act of 1961 has undergone more than 4,000 amendments and contains over 5 lakh words. It has become too complex. The new bill simplifies that by nearly 50 per cent -- making it far easier for ordinary taxpayers to read and understand," Panda told IANS. He highlighted that the greatest beneficiaries of this simplification would be small business owners and MSMEs who often lack the legal and financial expertise to navigate complicated tax structures. 'Unlike large corporations that have access to tax consultants and legal advisors, MSMEs and common taxpayers struggle. A simpler law means fewer disputes and easier compliance,' he said. The Select Committee, under Panda's leadership, held 36 uninterrupted meetings over several months. It consulted more than a hundred stakeholders, including industry bodies and individual experts. Panda noted with pride that not a single meeting was postponed and no extension was sought, making this committee a rare example of efficient parliamentary functioning. The report, which includes over 300 recommendations, has been submitted well within schedule and is expected to be tabled during the current Monsoon Session. 'If passed, the new law could take effect from April 1 next year,' he added. Panda credited this success to bipartisan cooperation. "There was no political point-scoring. Every member focused on simplifying the tax law for the benefit of taxpayers. It was truly a team effort in the national interest," he told IANS. 'While the bill itself does not change tax policies -- which remain the domain of the Finance Bill and the Union Budget -- it lays a modern, simplified foundation that allows existing and future tax policies to be implemented more clearly and effectively,' he added. Panda also clarified that the committee did not propose any policy changes but ensured the legal structure accommodates all recent reforms and is accessible to every citizen. "Simplifying the law itself helps policy implementation and reduces confusion for both taxpayers and tax administrators," he said.
Mint
2 days ago
- Business
- Mint
IT Act simplification to cut down litigation in a big way, to aid future reforms: Baijayant Panda
New Delhi: Simplification of the Income Tax Act for which a select committee of the Lok Sabha made over 330 recommendations will cut down tax litigation significantly and aid future tax reforms, the panel's chairperson Baijayant Panda told Mint in an interview. The select committee was set up for the purpose of scrutinizing the bill. The first draft of the bill tabled in the House in the Budget session of the House this year had sought to reduce the volume of words by nearly half while the Select Committee wanted to make sure the simplification exercise does not lead to wordings that are open to different interpretations, Panda said. The number of words has been lowered from over 500,000 to about 260,000. Override access code proposal accepted The chairperson said that the committee accepted the proposal in the draft bill regarding tax officials' powers to override access code in computers in the case of non-cooperating assesses under certain circumstances, as this did not entail any change in the law as it exists today, including judicial pronouncements and internal circulars of the Income Tax Department. The provision allowing tax officials to access computers and digital systems, even overriding their access code, when request for information is not complied with, in certain cases of undisclosed income or foreign assets, had caused concern among professionals. 'New India deserves a simple, easy-to-comprehend, easy-to-comply Income Tax Act and this is the first big step of simplifying the Act as it exists. The draft which the government had introduced in Parliament had already seen a huge simplification in terms of reduced word count, better clarity in language and removal of obsolete language in favour of more modern and concise wordings and tables and formulas to clarify certain aspects rather than describing them in words," Panda said. Also read | Income Tax Act revamp: Govt to set up panel to make law simpler for taxpayers Panda explained that the bill was not meant to make substantive changes to the law and the committee's mandate was to vet it for simplification. 'Our mandate was to make the Act as it exists, clear, simple and easy to comply," he said, adding that the committee received a lot of suggestions which were beyond the scope of its mandate and were seeking policy changes. Those could be taken up in different forums such as the annual Finance Bill every year. 'But what we have achieved is within our mandate." Panda explained that a lot of liberal and pro-taxpayer policy changes were being introduced from time to time by the government but many such measures were getting caught up in the complications of the tax law. 'Now, when this bill becomes a law and replaces the old Act, it will reduce ambiguity and it will reduce litigation dramatically because complexity is reduced vastly." 'The existing Act had become so complex that sometimes even very senior professionals with decades of experience could not give you a clear answer about the taxability of certain items. In the new bill, it becomes far simpler to understand what is taxable, what is not taxable and what is taxable at what rate," Panda said. 'Our mandate was to ensure that simplifying of the Act is internally consistent to avoid inadvertent errors that can creep in while language is changed." Examined extensively He explained that confusion about the search and seizure powers of tax officials as provided for in the bill was on account of 'misinformation". The committee had examined it extensively, he said. 'Let me make it very clear, there is no change in the law," Panda said, adding that some people were comparing the wordings in the existing law and the wording in the draft bill and thought there is a difference. 'The Income Tax Act dates back to 1961. On the issue of privacy and on the issue of search and seizure, there have been several judgments of High Courts and the Supreme Court. There have also been internal circulars about checks and balances; search and seizure cannot be subjective, cannot be whimsical. When you take the existing Act and court judgments leading to circulars--that is the existing law and that has been faithfully reproduced in the new bill." The law was written when there were no computers and when they came, accounts became electronic documents, Panda explained, adding that the same principle of search and seizure was extended and courts have ruled on it and the department has issued internal circulars on it. Also read | Redo the Income Tax Act not just to simplify but rationalize taxation Tax officials' powers to access documents of non-cooperating assessees under certain circumstances are the same whether these are digital or otherwise. 'To sum it up, the wording in the new draft bill faithfully reproduces the Act as it has been modified by court judgments and internal circulars. One thing is very clear, there is no policy change," said Panda. The committee held interactions with a wide range of stakeholders including large as well as small and medium enterprises, industry associations—not just the big ones, but even regional ones—lawyers and chartered accountants representing big and small firms and individual practitioners as well as taxpayers' associations and nonprofit organizations. "I will emphasize this point that this is a huge step for simplification, clarity, ease of compliance, reduced litigation, and it will make possible many more ongoing reforms in the years to come," Panda said. Also read | Nirmala Sitharaman reviews Income Tax Act 1961
