National Assembly Implements Major Downsizing, Abolishes 220 Posts to Save Over Rs563 Million Annually
In a significant move aimed at administrative reforms and cost-saving measures, the National Assembly Secretariat has downsized its workforce by abolishing 220 posts ranging from Grade 1 to 19. This decision is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and implement austerity measures within the Secretariat.
According to a press release issued on Thursday, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq initiated these reforms to enhance efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenditures. The elimination of these non-essential positions is expected to save the national exchequer more than Rs563 million annually.
The reforms have been implemented in three phases. The first phase saw the removal of 90 non-essential posts, resulting in savings of Rs250.52 million per year. In the second phase, an additional 130 positions were abolished, contributing to further savings of Rs30.75 million annually. Together, these measures have already saved more than Rs560 million, with additional savings of Rs400 million anticipated in the third phase.
The decision to downsize was approved during a Finance Committee meeting chaired by Speaker Sadiq. The committee’s decisions included the implementation of an austerity plan, a reassessment of the National Assembly Secretariat’s needs, and improvements in procedures related to staffing, appointments, and promotions, all with a focus on transparency and accountability.
Further recruitment in the National Assembly Secretariat has been halted unless decided otherwise, and a sub-committee has been established to review the National Assembly Secretariat Employees Act, 2018. The goal is to align it more closely with the Civil Servants Act, 1973, and to propose amendments that will better determine the Secretariat’s staffing needs while improving the systems for promotions and appointments.
