Khursheed Shah demands level-playing field in polls

Expresses concern over ‘PML-N affiliates’ in caretaker cabinet

ISLAMABAD:

Noting that former bureaucrats of the PML-N were inducted into the caretaker set-up, PPP senior leader Khursheed Shah on Wednesday demanded a level-playing field to contest the upcoming general elections.

Recently, ex-bureaucrats Ahad Cheema, Fawad Hasan Fawad and Tauqeer Shah were given important portfolios by the interim set-up.

Speaking to reporters in the federal capital, Shah emphasized that the PML-N was the only party with its affiliates in the federal cabinet.

The presence of former close aides of the Sharif brothers in the interim set-up has strengthened the perception that it was an “extension” of the previous government led by the PML-N.

The PPP leader expressed his disappointment over the removal of high-ranking officers from Sindh from their positions, which were subsequently filled by officers from Punjab.

He complained that development projects were progressing in Punjab while being put on hold in Sindh, asking who will be questioned if not the PML-N in such a situation.

The PPP leader also mentioned the possibility of elections taking place in January, February, or even earlier.

The biggest achievement of charter of democracy is that no one can run away from polls, he said.
He expressed sorrow over the historical fact that the country had experienced 40 years of martial law, leading to a tradition of infrequent elections.

We endured executions and imprisonment but remained steadfast in our commitment to the people and democracy, he declared while advocating for a level playing field.

He reminded that the PPP was the party that had advocated for the removal of the PTI government exclusively through constitutional means.