Govt needs PPP, PML-N support for South Punjab: FM

Qureshi says opposition’s APC shouldn’t focus on saving skin

MULTAN: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said creation of South Punjab as a separate province is a necessity which can no longer be ignored as it was a part of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s manifesto.

Talking to media in Multan after paying condolences over the death of 14 of a family in a bus accident on Sunday, the foreign minister said since PTI doesn’t enjoy a two-thirds majority in parliament, the government can only establish South Punjab as a separate province if the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz support its cause.

Qureshi however announced that a 15-member council has been set up in this regard to develop a political consensus as no single party is in a position to bring constitutional amendment to pave way for the creation of South Punjab province.



“Recommendations of the council will be put before the opposition and we request them to rise above politics and make decision based on needs of the people,” he said remarking the opposition’s All Parties should be meaningful and not focused on saving  skin of someone.

Moreover, the PTI senior leader rejected impression of accountability institutions being dictated by the government. “Accountability institutions are not being dictated and PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari is aware of it,” he said adding the Chairman NAB was appointed by the previous government with PPP’s consent.

“Decision to arrest Zardari will be taken by the institutions,” said Qureshi adding there’s no political victimisation going on in the country. He further said national money was ruthlessly plundered by the previous rulers who purchased properties abroad but now this will change and the plunderers will be held accountable.

“I categorically clarify we will not use influence on the institutions of accountability. Accountability for all is our policy and it will be done without any discrimination,” he assured.



On another query, the minister said he does not see any possibility of imposing a governor rule in Sindh and it is baseless news.