Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has expressed concerns about a new law expanding the powers and immunities of provincial assembly members, emphasizing that public funds should serve the people rather than political elites.

The KP Provincial Assembly passed the KP Provincial Assembly (Powers, Immunities and Privileges) Act, 2026, which replaces the 1988 law on similar matters.

While Kundi initially assented to the legislation, he later urged a review due to backlash over provisions like lifetime official passports for MPs, immunity from preventive detention, and weapon licenses.

His statement highlighted economic hardship faced by Pakistanis, particularly in KP, and called for fiscal discipline, aligning with Prime Minister Imran Khan’s 14-point austerity measures.Kundi recommended cutting expenditures, fuel rationing, and eliminating unnecessary privileges.

The law’s changes reflect a shift toward granting greater autonomy to assembly members, raising concerns about accountability during times of economic strain.