Nations can’t be built by ‘Form 47’ politicians: Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

I resigned when PML-N abandoned politics of respect for vote for the politics of power, says former PM

Former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi launched his new political party, the Awam Pakistan Party (APP), on Saturday, criticising the country's current political and economic instability.

"Pakistan is plagued by political and economic instability. Remember, countries cannot be built by those relying on Form 47," Abbasi said during the launch event in Islamabad.

Abbasi expressed concerns about the country's leadership, stating, "The rulers do not care about the country. What can a government that taxes milk do? The majority of those sitting in national and provincial assemblies have lost elections. We are standing at the brink of disaster, and the current rulers are indifferent."

He pointed out the issue of out-of-school children, noting, "No one has questioned why 26 million children are out of school. Awam Pakistan is an unconventional political party. Inflation is at its peak, exports are declining, and those on stage have come forward to save the country from crises."

Highlighting the authenticity of his party, Abbasi remarked, "In Pakistan, ready-made parties are formed; we are not one of them. There is no political or economic stability. Remember, countries cannot be built by those relying on Form 47."

Also read: 'Awam Pakistan Party' formally launched with 'Badlenge Nizam' slogan

Abbasi also addressed the need for accountability, saying, "We talk about the problems facing the country and accountability. Those who impose taxes on the public should be held accountable. Smuggling cannot be stopped, but they tax milk."

He promised to present solutions to the country's problems in four weeks, emphasising, "We need to understand that issues should be reduced, not increased. Political stability is essential for economic stability and development. For 35 years, I have seen that 95% of laws are made for the government, not the people. It has become clear that the country must be run according to the constitution."

Commenting on the relationship between the establishment and the judiciary, Abbasi said, "The relationship between the establishment and the judiciary and other institutions is constitutional. We have all made mistakes, but we want to correct them. When the PML-N abandoned the politics of respect for the vote for the politics of power, I resigned. I did not join any other party after leaving PML-N and did not contest elections."

Abbasi's new party aims to address the pressing issues of Pakistan and provide a fresh perspective on governance and accountability.