Overview of Article 250 of the Constitution of Pakistan
The Constitution of Pakistan, promulgated in 1973, serves as the cornerstone legal document outlining its structure, powers, and functions of government. Of all of its articles, Article 250 stands out for being particularly relevant; it addresses important matters related to salaries, allowances, and privileges of key public officeholders.
Article 250 States
250. Salaries, allowances, etc., of the President, etc
- Within two years from the commencing day, provision shall be made by law for determining the salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker and a member of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, the Chairman and Deputy Chairman and a member of the Senate, the Prime Minister, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner.
- Until other provision is made by law,
- the salaries, allowances and privileges of the President, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker or a member of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly, a Federal Minister, a Minister of a State, a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister and the Chief Election Commissioner shall be the same as the salaries, allowances and privileges to which the President, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker or member of the National Assembly of Pakistan or a Provincial Assembly, a Federal Minister, a Minister of State, a Chief Minister, a Provincial Minister or, as the case may be, the Chief Election Commissioner was entitled immediately before the commencing day; and
- the salaries, allowances and privileges of the Chairman, the Deputy Chairman, the Prime Minister and a member of the Senate shall be such as the President may by Order determine.
- The salary, allowances and privileges of a person holding office as
- the President;
- the Chairman or Deputy Chairman;
- the Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly or a Provincial Assembly;
- a Governor;
- the Chief Election Commissioner; or
- the Auditor-General;
shall not be varied to his disadvantage during his term of office.
- At any time when the Chairman or Speaker is acting as President, he shall be entitled to the same salary, allowances and privileges as President but shall not exercise any of the functions of the office of Chairman or Speaker member of Majlis-e-Shoora (Parliament), or be entitled to salary, allowances or privileges as Chairman, Speaker or such a member.
Key Points of Article 250 of the Constitution of Pakistan
- Provision for Determining Compensation: Within two years after the commencement of the Constitution, legislation must be enacted that establishes salaries, allowances and privileges of certain public officeholders (ranging from the President to Provincial Ministers).
- Interim Arrangements: Pending the passage of the law, interim arrangements are in place. Compensation remains unchanged from before commencement of the Constitution in terms of various positions such as President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker and members of both National Assembly and Provincial Assembly; Federal Ministers, Ministers of State, Chief Ministers Provincial Ministers as well as Chief Election Commissioner.
- Presidential Authority: The President can, by Order, determine the salaries, allowances and privileges for Senate members as Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Prime Minister until new laws are put in place.
- Protection Against Reduction: Certain officeholders, such as the President, Chairman, Speaker, Governor, Chief Election Commissioner, and Auditor-General, enjoy protection against any reduction in their salary, allowances, and privileges during their term of office.
- Acting President’s Entitlement: In the unique scenario where the Chairman or Speaker acts as the President, they are entitled to the same compensation as the President. However, they are restricted from exercising the functions of their regular office during this period.
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Crux of Article 250 of the Constitution of Pakistan
At its core, Article 250 serves to establish a clear and regulated framework for determining the financial aspects of key public officeholders. The provision ensures that the compensation of these individuals is not left to ambiguity or subject to arbitrary changes. By delineating a systematic process for determining salaries, allowances, and privileges, Article 250 promotes transparency and stability in the financial structures of the Pakistani government.
Conclusion: Article 250 of the Constitution of Pakistan
In conclusion, Article 250 of the Constitution of Pakistan plays a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of the country’s governance. Its meticulous provisions underscore the importance of clarity and stability in the compensation of key public figures. As an integral part of the 1973 Constitution, Article 250 stands as a testament to the commitment to governance that is not only effective but also transparent and accountable.
Whether one is delving into the intricacies of the constitution or seeking to understand the foundational principles of Pakistan’s governance, Article 250 stands out as a significant component that shapes the financial dimensions of public service.
