Bilawal makes pitch for political stability

Favours stability either through dialogue or force Criticises PTI for its 'undemocratic' moves Opposes 'banni

KARACHI:

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has laid emphasis on establishing political stability and writ of the state, claiming that now it will have to be decided whether this stability and writ is established through dialogue or come on the back of force.

"We need political stability if we want to resolve the problems of people. However, the opposition is the biggest hurdle to political stability in the country," Bilawal said on Saturday.

The PPP chief, who was addressing people at 150 locations across the country through video-link at the 57th foundation day of his party, was apparently referring to the PTI which recently marched on the federal capital in a bid to pressure the government into releasing former prime minister Imran Khan.

The PTI claims that authorities on the night of November 26 launched a brutal crackdown against the PTI protesters, a crackdown that resulted in the death of over a dozen people. The government, however, vehemently denies the claim.

Criticizing the PTI without naming it, the PPP chief said what happened on May 9, 2023—after the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan as well as the party's protest march between November 24 and November 26 could not be called politics.

"Why does the opposition, which does not believe in democracy, expect that others will adopt a democratic behavior towards it?" he asked.

According to Bilawal, the opposition has always held this stance that it will not hold talks with other political players. "They only want to hold dialogue with the establishment or non-political people."

Obliquely criticizing the PTI, the PPP chief said if they want to ensure the release of their founding chairman, they should abandon the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government and engage in this mission with complete focus.

"However, no one can be allowed to invade the capital like an army," he said in a reference to the PTI march in which convoys had entered Islamabad after forcing their way through barriers.

Bilawal said the PML-N led government might be considering the option of banning the party which does not have a political mindset.

"It may also be thinking about imposing Governor's Rule in a province. However, it has not yet consulted the PPP about it. The PPP historically opposes such actions and firmly believes in positive politics and political solutions," he added.

Paying tribute to the PPP's founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Bilawal said the people of Pakistan still see solutions to their challenges in Bhutto's legacy.

"Shaheed Bhutto gifted the nation with democracy, a people-friendly constitution, economic revolution, and the nuclear programme. Tragically, he was subjected to judicial murder," he remarked.

He acknowledged the struggles faced by the PPP in its journey, saying, "Attempts were made to obliterate the PPP's ideology through oppression, but the party survived due to its strong bond with the people, the sacrifices of its workers, and the visionary leadership of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto."

Bilawal lauded his mother Benazir Bhutto for defeating conspiracies against the PPP.

"She courageously faced two dictators, leading the party with unmatched resilience. Her governments were known for introducing public-friendly economic policies and creating employment opportunities. Her leadership earned her a unique place in history, and her words resonated across the globe."

He also paid homage to President Asif Ali Zardari, crediting him for expanding PPP's influence and achieving milestones like the 18th Amendment and the launch of the Benazir Income Support Programme.

"Zardari became the first president in Pakistan's history to be re-elected. Under his leadership, the PPP strengthened its presence in Sindh and Balochistan while holding key positions like chairmanship of the Senate and deputy speakership of the National Assembly [after February 8 general elections]."

Discussing the current political situation, Bilawal said no party was given a clear majority in the February general elections. "Our party supported the PML-N in forming the government to address economic crises and inflation, without joining the cabinet, giving them full opportunity to resolve national issues."

On the issue of terrorism, Bilawal called for a renewed National Action Plan, warning that terrorism poses a significant threat to national stability. He also criticized the K-P government for its handling of the situation in Parachinar, highlighting the responsibility of maintaining law and order.

The chairman opposed the economic policies that threaten the livelihoods of farmers, particularly the immediate imposition of agricultural taxes, and highlighted the negative impact of government policies on the IT sector.

He stressed the need to develop agriculture and technology sectors to boost the country's economy. In his speech, he reiterated the PPP's commitment to promoting democratic values, addressing public issues, and preserving the party's legacy of serving the nation.

Addressing party workers and leaders in Hyderabad, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also emphasized PPP's historic achievements and unwavering commitment to democracy and public service.

He paid tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who established the party on November 30, 1967. Shah praised Bhutto's visionary leadership, highlighting his iconic slogan of "Roti, Kapra aur Makaan"—his struggle against dictatorship, and his efforts to elevate Pakistan to nuclear power.

"Shaheed Bhutto gave a voice to the people and empowered them through the power of their vote," Shah said. He criticized the verdict that led to Bhutto's execution, labelling it a "judicial murder", and welcomed the recent recognition of this injustice by the Supreme Court.