In a rare moment of appreciation across the aisle, Saad Rizvi, leader of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), congratulated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for presenting what he called a “budget aimed at easing people’s pain.”
While talking to the media, Rizvi said the government’s effort to reduce pressure on the common man is visible in this year’s budget. “At least it tries to address the basic concerns of low-income families,” he said, pointing out the increase in funds for utility subsidies and social welfare programs.
Rizvi viewed the extension of the tax relief measures on small earners positively, but he was also able to see that prices are still challenging for a lot of families. He was cautious in his optimism, noting his primary concern will be how well the government implements the plan. “The numbers are written on a piece of paper, which means something – to spend that money in the right hands will mean something else.”
He also had little to add about the government’s exercise to support farming and small business states. If they can get adequate loans, and electrical costs are reduced without graft and delay, things can help rural communities.
“This is not the time for politics. If something good is done for the people, we should say so,” Rizvi added.
However, he also pointed out that the budget could have included more relief on fuel and transport costs, especially for daily wage earners. “Let’s be real — the poor don’t live in statistics. They live on wages, and everything rides on petrol prices.”
His statement received mixed reactions online. Some critics argued it was too soon to celebrate, while others appreciated the honesty in acknowledging good policy.
As the budget debates continue, Rizvi’s remarks signal a slightly unusual tone of agreement — though with a fair dose of caution.
