PML-N strengthens grip in AJK

In a political development strengthening Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’s (PML-N) grip in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) ahead of the February 8 general elections, former premier of the region, Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan, has thrown his support behind the party.

The development came during a meeting between Shehbaz Sharif, the president of All Jammu Kashmir Muslim Conference, and key figures from the PML-N.

PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique and Shah Ghulam Qadir, the president of the party's Azad Kashmir chapter, were also present during the gathering.

Expressing gratitude for the political backing, Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the alliance's significance and lauded the sacrifices and efforts of the late Kashmiri leader, Sardar Muhammad Abdul Qayyum Khan, in the struggle for Kashmir's freedom.

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“Late Sardar Muhammad Abdul Qayyum Khan is considered among the leading leaders of the freedom movement. PML-N and Muslim Conference are two parts of the same movement,” the PML-N president said.

Terming the reunification of like-minded parties as a joyous occasion, Shehbaz stressed that the unity of PML-N and the Muslim Conference would amplify the voice of Jammu and Kashmir, making it stronger and more impactful.

The collaboration between the two parties is expected to play a crucial role in effectively highlighting the plight of people in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, he added.

Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan, in turn, praised the political and national services of Shehbaz. “By saving Pakistan from default, you have proved the true love of the country,” he commended.

Highlighting the attributes of a statesman, Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan emphasised the importance of making decisions in the long-term interest of the state and the nation, rather than for temporary political gain.