In light of the ongoing protests led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) against the current government, Nawaz Sharif, former Prime Minister and President of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), delivered a compelling message emphasizing the need for humility in politics. Speaking from London during the launch of the Apna Ghar Apni Chat Scheme, Nawaz criticized the PTI’s unfulfilled claims of progress in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning that their promises remain largely unachieved. He condemned the party’s reliance on violence and chaos, stating that such actions only exacerbate political instability, affecting both PTI supporters and the general public.
Sharif urged Imran Khan, currently incarcerated, to reflect on the political challenges and the principle of reaping what one sows. He reminded PTI protesters that during his tenure, the nation saw significant advancements, including motorways, solutions to the energy crisis, and a determined fight against terrorism. In contrast, he pointed out that Imran Khan’s government has fallen short on critical commitments such as the Billion Tree Programme and the pledge to build five million houses. Sharif asserted that humility is essential for true leadership, rather than engaging in ongoing anti-government campaigns and protests that dominate the political landscape.
Nawaz Defends Ban on PTI Rallies in Punjab
Nawaz Sharif stood firmly behind the decision to ban PTI rallies in Punjab, citing the escalating violence and chaos instigated by PTI supporters. During a recent public address in Lahore, Sharif emphasized that this government decision was vital for maintaining order, especially given the anarchist policies propagated by the PTI. He highlighted that protests by Imran Khan’s followers have resulted in violent clashes with law enforcement, including incidents where police personnel were attacked. Sharif contrasted these disruptions with his leadership, underscoring the importance of stability and economic improvement over relentless unrest.
Reflecting on his past tenures, Sharif criticized PTI’s unfulfilled promises, including the Billion Tree Programme and the five million houses initiative. He showcased his government’s achievements, such as welfare projects like Kissan Cards and enhancements in healthcare and education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Describing the protests as reckless, he likened PTI supporters to blind, herded animals misled by their leader’s empty rhetoric. Sharif reinforced that genuine progress stems from strong governance, not from staging protests or promoting instability.
Nawaz’s Warning Against Imran’s Provocation
In a recent ceremony in Lahore, Nawaz Sharif expressed grave concerns about Imran Khan’s attempts to provoke conflict between Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He accused the PTI leader, currently imprisoned in Adiala Jail, of stirring tensions to divert attention from his party’s poor governance. Sharif compared Khan’s tactics to ancient Central Asian raiders attacking Punjab, criticizing his approach and likening his supporters to sheep and goats unaware of their true needs. According to Nawaz, the PML-N focuses on delivering projects like subsidized housing, aiming to provide five million houses for the underprivileged, while the PTI perpetuates division and unrest.
Sharif noted that PTI’s recent actions have resulted in street riots reminiscent of the 2014 sit-in, suggesting Imran is attempting to deflect attention from his failures. He urged the populace to remember the significance of humility and the principle of reaping what one sows. Instead of inciting conflict, Nawaz called for comprehensive dialogue to tackle the crises facing the nation, warning that ongoing protests and public gatherings, like those planned in Sangjani, only deepen provincial divisions.
Ouster from Power and Maryam’s Critique of Imran
Nawaz Sharif, the elder statesman, reflected on his ousting from power in 2017, when five judges disqualified him following the Panama Papers scandal, leaving him and the 250 million people he served with a sense of injustice. Sharif frequently cites former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar’s pivotal role in this upheaval, with leaked audios further fueling public outrage. He argues that while he was removed from office, Imran Khan and his government have accomplished little for the country. Despite his ousting, he insists the nation continues to progress, highlighting the contrast between his achievements and the chaos created by Khan’s administration, which includes sit-ins and agitation.
In a recent ceremony, Maryam Nawaz, Punjab Chief Minister and Nawaz’s daughter, directed her remarks at Imran Khan, criticizing his political maneuvers that have led to chaos. She noted that while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has received certain facilities, Khan’s leadership has done little to ensure healthcare, jobs, and education for the populace. Maryam expressed disappointment over PTI’s tactics, which include setting things ablaze and generating political turmoil. She affirmed that her doors remain open for dialogue but emphasized that her administration would not tolerate any attempts to incite chaos in Punjab.