The recently Economic Advisory Council (EAC) has stirred controversy amongst financial circle of the country with economic pundits terming it to be a superfluous structure. Dominated by business tycoons and industrialists from Punjab, the Council lacks broad provincial representation and critical economic expertise. This move has also raised concerns about the Council’s ability to address Pakistan’s economic challenges, highlighting a pressing need for competent economic leadership in such precarious times.

However, the Council’s composition has been criticized for its lack of diversity and representation from all provinces and major economic sectors. Unlike previous councils, which had relatively broad representation, the current EAC is seen as closely aligned with the Prime Minister’s inner circle. The EAC headed by the Prime Minister himself, includes several prominent figures. Among the members of EAC there is Salman Ahmad, whose consultancy firm, McKenzie, recently secured a multimillion-dollar contract for advisory services for the digitization of the Federal Board of Revenue.

An important and controversial inclusion in the council is Jahangir Khan Tareen, the founder of the Istahkam-e-Pakistan Party. Tareen, who had retired from active public life after his defeat in the February 8 General Elections, has been brought back into the power corridors. His political journey began in 2002. He held various positions, including serving as a Minister with the portfolio of industries, production, and Special Initiatives. Despite his extensive political experience, Tareen’s inclusion has raised eyebrows due to his past disqualification by the Supreme Court for financial........

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