Miftah Ismail cites history as evidence for current govt not finishing term

Former finance minister predicts current government would similarly falter due to its lack of delivery on key issues

Former finance minister and Secretary-General of the Awaam Pakistan Party (APP), Miftah Ismail, has expressed doubts about the current government's ability to complete its constitutional term, citing a troubling historical pattern of prime ministers in Pakistan.

Speaking at a press conference in Hyderabad on Sunday, Ismail remarked, "No prime minister had ever completed their term in Pakistan," predicting that the federal government would similarly falter due to its lack of delivery on key issues.

Ismail stated, "Shahid Khaqan Abbasi told Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) what was being done 'is not our politics,'" signalling a clear break from the ruling party's practices.

He further questioned the commitment of the PML-N to its manifesto, stating, "Is this the politics of honouring the vote? The PML-N left its manifesto." He pointed out that the political crisis could have been avoided had Nawaz Sharif accepted defeat in the February 8 general elections.

Ismail noted that many former members of the PML-N are now joining the APP, highlighting a potential shift in the political landscape. He also directed his criticism towards the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which has governed Sindh since 2008, stating, "They take votes but do nothing in the province."

Discussing local issues in Hyderabad, Ismail pointed to significant deficiencies in electricity, gas, drainage, and infrastructure, asserting that apart from Karachi, "there is no maintained family park in the entire of Sindh."

He declared the APP's commitment to addressing rights abuses in the region, lamenting the country’s economic decline over the past 30 years. "If you look at the past, Pakistan was at the forefront in terms of economy in Asia but became the poorest in 30 years," he remarked.

On the controversial passage of the 26th amendment, Ismail emphasised the importance of an "independent and fair judiciary" as essential for protecting rights. He expressed concern over the process, stating, "The Constitution is a social contract, how can it be changed in the dark of night?"

In response to questions about other political entities, Ismail described the Pak Sarzameen Party and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party as being formed for specific purposes. He concluded, "APP does not claim that it will win elections, but if it does win, it promises to deliver." He also stated that Imran Khan is no longer a favourite.