PM Shehbaz declares tough measures ahead, vows to end disruptions for Pakistan's progress

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the recent protests in Islamabad, crediting the Army Chief for providing full support in quelling the unrest. He vowed that those responsible for the disruptions would no longer be allowed to destabilise the nation.

Speaking at a federal cabinet meeting on Wednesday, the PM stated that the security forces successfully ended the protests through a well-executed strategy, bringing much-needed peace to the capital and the country. 

PM Shehbaz highlighted the severe economic damage caused by the protests, noting the disruption of daily life and the negative impact on businesses, workers, and the broader economy. He pointed out that shops and factories had been closed for several days, leaving daily wage workers and vendors unable to earn a living. 

"The protests have brought daily life to a standstill, with many struggling to feed their families. Hospitals faced difficulties in treating patients, and the stock market plummeted," he explained. 

The KSE-100 index saw a sharp drop during the protests but rebounded by nearly 4,700 points once the situation was resolved. PM Shehbaz stressed that investors are hesitant to invest in a disruptive environment but are quick to return once stability is restored.

He made it clear that the government would take strong measures to prevent further disruptions.

"It is time to make tough decisions because we have no other option but to focus on the development and prosperity of our country. These agents of chaos will no longer be given any opportunity to disrupt Pakistan's progress," he asserted.

He stressed that if the country continued to experience protests and unrest, it would only hinder national recovery and development. "The nation now has to decide – will we continue with protest politics, or will we prioritize economic recovery and national development?" he asked.

The PM also referenced the events of May 9, when violent protests led to the deaths of Rangers and Islamabad Police officers, as well as the destruction of public property. 

"If the perpetrators of May 9 had been properly punished, we would not be in this situation today. The protestors were armed, and their actions caused immense suffering to the people of Pakistan," he said.

PM Shehbaz praised the bravery of law enforcement agencies, including the police and Rangers, who managed to repel the protestors and restore order. "I commend the police, Rangers, and all law enforcement personnel for their heroic efforts in defending peace and security," he added.

He also touched on the worsening security situation in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in areas like Parachinar and Kurram, which have been severely affected by terrorism. "Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is under threat from terrorism, and the provincial government must focus all its resources on securing the region," the premier said.

PM Shehbaz concluded by urging the nation to appreciate the value of Pakistan as a sovereign state. He warned that failure to do so would betray the sacrifices made by the country's founding leaders. 

"Pakistan is a precious gift, and if we fail to value it, we will turn away from the vision of our founding fathers," he said. He highlighted the struggles of the poor, many of whom can no longer afford to send their children to school.

The PM expressed his gratitude to the Army for its collaboration in dealing with the unrest.

"The Chief of Army Staff provided full support in handling the situation in Islamabad, and for this, we are thankful," he said. He also acknowledged that despite the challenges, the country's economy had shown signs of recovery, with key indicators improving.

He stated that even Pakistan's most vocal critics were now acknowledging the progress in the economy, calling it "nothing short of a miracle." "The economy is recovering, and the key figures are working in unison for the good of the country," he said, referring to the collaboration between the military and civilian leadership.

The PM further criticised the opposition, particularly those who have raised allegations of election rigging. "Those who scream about election fraud should first answer for the rigging in 2018," he remarked. 

He recalled that after the 2018 elections, he was assured by Imran Khan that an inquiry committee would be formed to investigate allegations of rigging, but the committee held only one or two meetings before disbanding.

He also noted that while protests were held in 2018, neither he nor his party resorted to violence or disruption. "We did not resort to the methods used by others. There was no damage to property during our protests," he explained. 

The PM pointed out that the protests in the recent past had caused significant losses, estimating that the economy had suffered a daily loss of Rs190 billion due to the disruptions.

He expressed concern over the recent strain in relations with a friendly nation, calling the actions against Pakistan's allies "an act of enmity." "We must assess our actions and their long-term consequences. It is time to make decisions that prioritise Pakistan’s national interest," he said.

In conclusion, PM Shehbaz reiterated that Pakistan's future could not be sacrificed to political disruption. "We will not allow these agents of chaos to destroy Pakistan’s future," he said, calling on the nation to unite for the greater good of the country.