What are the perks and privileges of opposition leader in Senate and National Assembly?
The Free and Fair Election Network (FAFN) has released a detailed report on the privileges, salary and facilities enjoyed by the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly and the Senate, which highlights the financial and administrative powers and facilities of the Opposition Leader.
According to the FAFN report, after the National Assembly, the appointment of the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate has also been completed. The report states that Allama Raja Nasir Abbas has been appointed as the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, while Mahmood Khan Achakzai is performing the duties of the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly.
The report clarifies that the Leader of the Opposition receives the same salary and privileges as a federal minister. According to FAFEN, the role of the opposition leader is not only important in parliamentary proceedings but also plays a key role in the process of constitutional appointments, while he enjoys preferential status for expressing his views in the House.
According to the FAFEN report, the monthly salary of the opposition leader is fixed at Rs 519,000. In addition, a one-time equipment allowance of Rs 5,000, a monthly supplementary allowance of Rs 6,000 and a monthly utility allowance of Rs 22,000 are also given.
The report states that the opposition leader is also provided with accommodation and transport facilities by the government. The leader of the opposition is given a furnished government residence; however, if he does not use the government residence, he is given a monthly rent allowance of Rs 13,125. In addition, a government vehicle is also provided, the maintenance and fuel of which is the responsibility of the government.
According to FAFEN, the opposition leader is also allowed to use a helicopter or plane of the Pakistan Air Force or the government, if available. During official visits, he is given a daily travel allowance of Rs 4,050 while during official stays, he is given a daily accommodation allowance of Rs 4,000.
The report further states that the opposition leader can keep a private secretary, a personal assistant, a stenographer, a messenger and a deputy messenger with him. The official residence also provides the facility of an official telephone, on which domestic calls are free. In addition, the opposition leader is also provided with medical facilities for treatment and accommodation.
Read also: Mahmood Khan Achakzai appointed as Opposition Leader in National Assembly
