Overview
- The Prime Minister’s Office said the parade and all associated ceremonies on March 23 will not be held, citing the Gulf oil crisis and the government’s austerity plan.
- Government bodies were directed to observe the day in a restrained manner with dignified flag‑hoisting at appropriate levels.
- The cancellation follows fuel‑saving steps such as a four‑day workweek for government offices, reduced fuel allowances, work‑from‑home directives and salary cuts at some state entities.
- Officials and press accounts link the decision to disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz that have raised energy costs for import‑dependent Pakistan.
- Republic World reported presidential approval and a new April 28 date for the investiture ceremony, while other outlets cited external analysts who read the cancellation as a sign of fiscal stress.