The President of Pakistan and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman, Asif Ali Zardari, has opted not to receive his salary and perks in light of the economic challenges confronting the nation.
An official announcement from the Presidency confirmed Zardari’s decision to forego his presidential salary and benefits to alleviate the burden on the national exchequer during these trying economic times.
“The President has chosen not to burden the national treasury by waiving his salary and perks,” stated the release issued by the Presidency.
Zardari, the joint candidate of the government alliance, secured 411 votes during the election, while the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) supported candidate, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, backed by PTI independents, received only 181 votes.
On Sunday, Asif Ali Zardari was sworn in as the 14th President of Pakistan during a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath of office to the newly elected president.
The swearing-in event was attended by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, outgoing President Arif Alvi, all three service Chiefs, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, governors, chief ministers, and various other dignitaries.