ISLAMABAD: Speaking on floor of National Assembly, Pakistan Peoples' Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said people were only interested in 'Roti, Kapra, Makaan' reduction in poverty and inflation. "People expect us to set aside our personal problems."

He recalled PM Shehbaz's emphasis on 'Charter of Economy ', adding that problems couldn't be solved without such charter. He said if government wanted to turn corner, it would have to consult people sitting on both sides of aisle.

Expressing disillusionment over government's reluctance to consult PPP and opposition on budget, he said results would have been better politically and economically if House were taken on board as country's situation is not hidden from anyone.

"We pray to steer country out of these crises by working in tandem with premier and his team as common man is encumbered by inflation", Bilawal said.  He thanked government for enhancing budget of Benazir Income Support Programme by 27 percent, adding that world including India was introducing programmes like BISP to root out poverty.

He recounted 'Bajwa Doctrine' which, he said, was targeted against PPP's success. "Our political philosophy revolves around implementation of taxes. We say that we will not impose taxes on poor people and receive it from rich only but we don't mean it.

During his speech, Bilawal took the government to task over its inability to forfeit 18 different ministries. He assured PM of his party's support in competing against various lobbies which compel government to give subsidies to fertiliser companies only hence devoiding poor farmers of any relief.

Bilawal underscored the need for swift climate action as people continue to suffer from heatwave as they suffered in 2022 floods. He urged government to adopt solar energy to mitigate energy crisis. He took potshots at 'Babus' (a local term for bureaucrats) for being unable to recognise sufferings of people by saying that imposing taxes on skimmed milk for children and stationery items might be advised by them.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 26 2024

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