Hyderabad: Former Finance Minister and Secretary General of Awaam Pakistan Party Miftah Ismail has expressed doubts about current government’s ability to complete its constitutional term, citing troubling historical pattern of prime ministers in Pakistan.

Speaking at press conference here, Ismail remarked, “No prime minister had ever completed their term in Pakistan,” predicting that government would similarly falter due to its lack of delivery on key issues.

He said, “Shahid Khaqan Abbasi told Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz what was being done ‘is not our politics,’” signalling clear break from ruling party’s practices.

He questioned commitment of PML-N to its manifesto, stating, “Is this politics of honouring vote? PML-N left its manifesto.” He pointed out that political crisis could have been avoided had Nawaz Sharif accepted defeat in February 8 general elections.

He said that many former members of PML-N are now joining APP, highlighting potential shift in political landscape. He directed his criticism towards Pakistan Peoples’ Party, which has governed Sindh since 2008, stating, “They take votes but do nothing in province.”

Discussing local issues in Hyderabad, Ismail pointed to significant deficiencies in electricity, gas, drainage and infrastructure, asserting that apart from Karachi, “There is no maintained family park in entire of Sindh.”

He declared APP’s commitment to addressing rights abuses in region, lamenting country’s economic decline over past 30 years. “If you look at past, Pakistan was at forefront in terms of economy in Asia but became poorest in 30 years,” he remarked.

On controversial passage of 26th amendment, he emphasised importance of an “Independent and fair judiciary” as essential for protecting rights. He expressed concern over process, stating, “ Constitution is social contract, how can it be changed in dark of night?”

Ismail described Pak Sarzameen Party and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party as being formed for specific purposes. He concluded, “APP does not claim that it will win elections, but if it does win, it promises to deliver.” He stated that Imran Khan is no longer favourite.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 29 2024

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.