Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has claimed that ministerial positions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are secured through payments of Rs 150 million, while Senate seats cost up to Rs 1 billion. Speaking on a private podcast, Abbasi stated bluntly: “Isn’t a minister appointed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by paying Rs 150 million? Don’t make me laugh.”
When the host expressed shock at the amount, Abbasi confirmed it was accurate, adding that payments go to “the one who makes the minister.” He further alleged senators pay Rs 700 million to Rs 1 billion for seats, expecting to earn “two to three billion rupees” in return.
Abbasi argued politicians who pay for party tickets lose moral standing to complain: “If you give money to get a ticket, you’re not qualified to say it was wrong because you participated.” Most strikingly, he dismissed the electoral process, asserting: “The vote you put in the ballot box isn’t counted. No one counts it.”
