Send old guard home, Bilawal tells people

In a fervent appeal to all political parties, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urged a collective trust in the people's decisions. Speaking at a workers' convention in Abbottabad, Bilawal passionately called for a departure from entrenched political leadership, advocating for the emergence of a leader who has not held power before. In his address, he critically assessed the longstanding political practices, labeling them as the country's "biggest enemy," and underlining the imperative need for a fresh approach to governance.

Highlighting the formidable challenges posed by historic levels of inflation and poverty, Bilawal argued that while resolving these issues required a strong ideological foundation, it was not an insurmountable task. He pledged that, if given the opportunity, a PPP-led government would be committed to addressing these pressing concerns and ensuring a more equitable and prosperous future for the people of Pakistan.

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Expressing confidence in the democratic process, Bilawal urged political parties to repose their trust in the Pakistani electorate. He emphasized the inadequacy of rulers, governments, and bureaucracies in understanding the ground realities and the pains and sufferings of the people. This assertion formed the basis of his call for a new leadership that was not bound by the limitations of the past.

"The biggest enemy of Pakistan is old politics," Bilawal declared, stressing the urgency of sending the old guard home to pave the way for a new political era. He urged an end to the political games that have persisted for the last 70 years, advocating for a decisive break from traditional political approaches.
Bilawal's appeal extended beyond party lines, as he sought collaboration and trust from all political factions. Trusting the people and placing faith in the democratic process, he underscored the importance of creating a fresh narrative for the country's political landscape.

Despite the challenges, Bilawal expressed confidence in the potential of the upcoming general elections, scheduled for February 8, 2024, to bring about a positive shift in the country's trajectory. He dismissed doubts about election delays, pointing to the unanimity among the judiciary, executive, and politicians in upholding the announced election date.
The PPP Chairman acknowledged the need for a level playing field for all political parties and emphasized the mutual responsibility of the government and the Election Commission of Pakistan in ensuring fair and transparent elections.

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He affirmed the government's commitment to providing such a level playing field and called for the nation's trust in this assurance. Addressing the concerns raised by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), Bilawal revealed that he had invoked the government's attention to the apprehensions through a letter. He clarified his role as a non-partisan spokesperson for all Pakistanis, committing to identifying and addressing issues responsibly.

Looking ahead to the future, Bilawal laid out a vision for a PPP-led government that prioritizes the reduction of inflation and the eradication of poverty. He promised to expand the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and introduce projects benefiting various segments of society. Farmer cards and the extension of the Mazdoor Card pilot project nationwide were highlighted as initiatives to provide relief to farmers and improve access to education and health facilities.

In a bid to ensure transparent governance, Bilawal pledged to prevent any unfair advantage of subsidies, commit to doubling employee salaries within five years, and promote business activities to make Pakistan a model state. Confident in PPP's prospects, Bilawal proclaimed that the PPP would form the next government at the Centre and in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province after winning the upcoming general elections.

Various PPP leaders, including Provincial President Muhammad Ali Shah, General Secretary Shuja Salem Khan, and other party office-bearers, addressed the convention. The gathering also included prominent figures such as PPP Secretary General Nayyar Bukhari, former minister Humayun Khan, former K-P speaker Karamatullah Chaghar Mati, Senator Rubina Khalid, and others.