Overview of Article 88 of the Constitution of Pakistan
Article 88 of the Constitution of Pakistan serves as a cornerstone in parliamentary oversight, specifically focusing on financial matters. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Article 88, shedding light on its provisions, key points, and the instrumental role it plays in ensuring fiscal integrity within the National Assembly and the Senate.
Article 88 States
88. Finance Committees
- The expenditure of the National Assembly and the Senate within authorised appropriations shall be controlled by the National Assembly or, as the case may be, the Senate acting on the advice of its Finance Committee.
- The Finance Committee shall consist of the Speaker or, as the case may be, the Chairman, the Minister of Finance and such other members as may be elected thereto by the National Assembly or, as the case may be, the Senate.
- The Finance Committee may make 199 rules for regulating its procedure.
Key Points of Article 88 of the Constitution of Pakistan
- Control of Expenditure: Article 88(1) empowers the National Assembly and the Senate to control their respective expenditures within authorized appropriations. This control is exerted based on the advice of the Finance Committee, indicating the critical role the committee plays in fiscal decision-making.
- Composition of Finance Committee: Article 88(2) sets forth the composition of the Finance Committee. This group comprises both a Speaker (or Chairman) and Minister of Finance as members; additional members may be appointed by either National Assembly or Senate members to ensure diversity and expertise in financial matters.
- Rule-Making Authority: Article 88(3) grants the Finance Committee the authority to make rules for regulating its procedures. This rule-making power allows the committee to establish guidelines that align with the specific needs and context of parliamentary financial oversight.
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Crux of Article 88 of the Constitution of Pakistan
At its core, Article 88 reflects the constitutional commitment to transparent and disciplined financial governance. By entrusting the Finance Committee with the responsibility of advising on expenditure control, the Constitution establishes a mechanism for informed decision-making and oversight within the parliamentary framework.
The inclusion of the Minister of Finance in the committee ensures the presence of financial expertise, contributing to well-informed discussions and decisions. The rule-making authority further enhances the committee’s effectiveness by allowing it to establish procedures tailored to the evolving needs of fiscal oversight.
Conclusion: Article 88 of the Constitution of Pakistan
In conclusion, Article 88 stands as a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to responsible financial governance within its parliamentary system. By defining the role and functions of Finance Committees, the Constitution ensures that the National Assembly and the Senate exercise control over their expenditures with prudence and accountability.
Understanding the nuances of Article 88 provides valuable insights into the constitutional mechanisms designed to uphold fiscal integrity. The provision not only empowers parliamentary committees but also reinforces the broader principles of transparency and responsible governance embedded in the Constitution of Pakistan 1973.
