Zardari says PM should take opposition into confidence on ‘charter of economy’

PPP co-chairman claims he has never asked for an NRO in eight years, why will he seek it now

A day after Prime Minister Imran Khan agreed to finalise a 'charter of economy' in consultation with all political parties, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari wants him to take the opposition into confidence first, Express News reported.

Speaking to the media representatives in Islamabad, former president Zardari also criticised the government for bringing the matter of National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO), time and again.

“Never in eight years, I have ever asked for the NRO then why should I seek it now,” claimed Zardari.

“The prime minister should express his opinions on the charter of economy and take the opposition into confidence over it. After his suggestions are known, then we will consult our party and other opposition parties.”

On June 21, the government had decided to set up a high-level parliamentary committee to suggest ways for taking the country out of the current economic crisis after the premier agreed to finalise the latest charter in consultation with the opposition.



The decision was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Imran and National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser.

According to sources, it was agreed that committee for the charter of economy would include members of all political parties in addition to lawmakers from the Senate and the NA. Key leaders of political parties would be able to present recommendations regarding improvement in the economy. The recommendation for the formation of such a committee was given by the opposition parties.

According to sources, the premier had expressed satisfaction over the speaker’s handling of the opposition‘s protests and issuance of production orders for detained lawmakers. Qaiser also had said a “progress on legislative agenda is necessary as people of Pakistan have their eyes set on the house.”

When asked about the government’s agreement on the new charter, Zardari said, “Nothing makes any difference, if a speaker says something. A speaker does not represent any political party, in fact, is neutral.”



On the statement that PM’s amnesty scheme was good for the good and bad for the bad, he said, “It must be bad for the prime minister himself then.”

During a budget debate in NA, PML-N President and Leader of the Opposition in the assembly Shehbaz Sharif had urged the government by keep its ego aside and head towards a charter of the economy.