A recent report by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) reveals that the country’s budgetary process is heavily influenced by the military and civilian bureaucracy, rather than elected officials. The study indicates that a significant portion of the budget is controlled through off-budget accounts and discretionary funds managed opaquely by these entities. This limits the parliament’s oversight and ability to effectively allocate resources based on public needs and priorities. Researchers found that defense spending, while officially disclosed, often underestimates the true financial commitment due to these off-budget mechanisms. Furthermore, civilian bureaucrats wield considerable power through Reappropriation Authorizations, allowing them to shift funds without parliamentary approval. The report argues this lack of transparency and accountability hinders economic development and reinforces existing power imbalances, effectively diminishing the role of the finance ministry and elected representatives in fiscal decision-making. PIDE recommends greater transparency, stricter budgetary controls, and increased parliamentary oversight to ensure a more equitable and effective allocation of public funds.