PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly has passed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ehsaas Rehribaan (Street Vendors) Livelihood Protection Bill, 2026, marking a significant step toward protecting the livelihoods and economic rights of street vendors across the province.
The passage of the Bill was welcomed by the National Influencer (NI), which is expected to benefit approximately 150,000 street vendors by providing them with greater legal recognition, protection, and certainty in carrying out their businesses. For NI, the legislation represents an important step toward strengthening the rule of law, economic freedom, individual initiative, and responsible governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Street vendors contribute significantly to local economies and provide livelihoods for thousands of families. The new legal framework can help replace arbitrary enforcement and uncertainty with clearer rules and legal protections.
The passage of the Bill is an encouraging example of how constructive policy advocacy can contribute to meaningful legislative reform. Muhammad Sulaiman, President of National Influencers, said: “The passage of the Ehsaas Rehribaan protection Bill is an important victory for the dignity of work, economic freedom, and the rule of law. Street vendors are entrepreneurs who deserve clear rules and legal protection to earn their livelihoods without fear of arbitrary interference. We appreciate all legislators, policymakers, government officials, and civil society actors who contributed to bringing this important reform forward.”
He added that “the real success of this legislation will depend on its implementation. We hope the government ensures that the protections provided by the law reach street vendors on the ground and that the regulatory process remains transparent, simple, and free from unnecessary bureaucracy and harassment.”
