Pakistan's Parliament Approves Secrecy Bill Amid Opposition

Pakistan's parliament passed a bill allowing lawmakers to keep asset details confidential if publicly sharing them poses a risk. The amendment balances transparency and individual rights, requiring the Election Commission's approval to withhold details for up to a year. The bill awaits Senate and presidential approval.

In a significant move, Pakistan's parliament approved a bill on Wednesday designed to grant confidentiality to lawmakers regarding their assets when public disclosure could endanger them. The legislation faced resistance from the party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned.

The existing law mandates that members of national and provincial assemblies submit asset details annually to the Election Commission of Pakistan by December's end. Traditionally, the Election Commission publishes these details, including those of spouses and children.

The newly passed Elections Amendment Bill, 2026, amends Section 138 of the Elections Act, allowing the National Assembly speaker or Senate chairperson to halt asset detail publication following a lawmaker's written request. This decision stems from potential threats to their life or safety. Notably, the bill requires the Senate's and President's endorsement to become law.

(With inputs from agencies.)