The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has publicly addressed the growing criticism of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, calling on the federal government to listen to public sentiment and take appropriate action. The remarks come amid rising tensions between the business community and the government following the announcement of the federal budget for 2025–26.
Speaking at a press conference in Karachi on Monday, KCCI President Javed Balwani stated that it is the government’s prerogative to decide on the future of the finance minister. However, he stressed that if the public is unhappy, the issue should not be ignored.
“If the public is unhappy with the finance minister, the government must find a solution,” Balwani said. He added that policies affecting the economy should reflect public and business interests, not just fiscal targets.
Balwani further argued that the federal budget is not beyond revision. “The budget is not something that comes from the sky — it can be withdrawn,” he said, implying that the government still has room to make changes in response to valid criticism.
The KCCI president also emphasized the business community’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. “We are ready to talk, we are ready to negotiate — all we want is for the government to understand our challenges,” he added.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has come under fire from both the public and business leaders for his handling of key financial matters, including tax reforms, utility price hikes, and a perceived lack of support for struggling sectors like manufacturing and exports. His budget proposal, although aimed at stabilizing the economy, has drawn criticism for placing a heavier burden on middle-class citizens and entrepreneurs.
Business leaders believe the current policies are making it harder for local industries to stay competitive. Many say they feel excluded from the decision-making process, further fueling dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Finance.
Despite these concerns, there has been no official statement from the government regarding any plans to replace Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. However, pressure is mounting from stakeholders across sectors who are urging for a policy review or possible leadership change within the finance ministry.
The KCCI has maintained that its goal is not political but economic. It aims to ensure that businesses across Pakistan can operate in a stable, predictable, and supportive environment. With inflation high and investor confidence shaky, the chamber believes urgent steps are needed to restore balance.
For now, the future of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb remains uncertain, but the call for accountability has clearly reached the highest levels of government. Whether the government will respond with policy adjustments or a leadership reshuffle is yet to be seen.
Don’t miss: Fatima Sana Shaikh opens up about facing assault after rejecting harassment
