In a rare moment of candid criticism from within the government ranks, Defence Minister and senior PML-N leader Khawaja Asif has lashed out at the massive salary hike approved for the Speaker of the National Assembly, Senate Chairman, and their deputies.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Asif called the move a form of economic obscenity, reflecting the growing disconnect between the ruling elite and the struggles of the common citizen.

In his strongly worded post, Asif wrote, “The exorbitant increase in salaries and privileges of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Senate Chairman, and Deputy Chairman falls under the category of financial vulgarity.” His comments come amid mounting public anger over the substantial raise, which has reportedly pushed the monthly salaries of some of these officials into the millions.

While ordinary citizens grapple with inflation and a stagnant economy, the decision to significantly boost high-ranking lawmakers’ compensation has sparked widespread backlash. Khawaja Asif emphasized the need for empathy, urging policymakers to remember the daily hardships of the average Pakistani. “Our honor and dignity are tied to the wellbeing of the common man,” he said, urging the leadership to show restraint in times of national economic stress.

The criticism comes ahead of the government’s new federal budget, which proposes only a modest 6 to 10 percent increase in salaries for government employees—a move many have already deemed insufficient given the rising cost of living.

This bold stance from a sitting federal minister may resonate with a public weary of elite privilege and double standards. As the debate intensifies, questions are being raised about priorities in budget allocation and the true meaning of public service.

Despite government claims of fiscal responsibility, the economic obscenity label is likely to stick, fueling further debate and potentially widening rifts within the ruling coalition itself.