PML-N's Sana rebuts Bilawal's criticism of defence minister

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister's Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah expressed concern over PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's statements about Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, saying such remarks could create further political tensions in the country.

Last month, Asif sparked a political controversy by stating that residents of Rawalakot, Mirpur, and Kotli were "not proper Kashmiris" and that Rawalakot is "not Kashmir". He made these remarks during a television interview amidst massive, ongoing civil unrest and strikes orchestrated by the Joint Awami Action Committee (Jaac).

Reacting to the statement during a speech in the National Assembly on June 24, Bilawal said certain ministers in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's cabinet were creating problems for him.

"Every coalition partner, every member of the opposition and every citizen of Pakistan should ask why such a minister is still in the cabinet?" he asked. The PPP chairman once again raised the issue on July 17 while addressing a rally in Dadyal, AJK, ahead of the July 27 polls.

He urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to clarify whether "recent remarks by members of the cabinet reflected the government's official position".

Talking to the host of a new show on Sunday, Sanaullah described Bilawal's comments as inappropriate and urged political leaders to adopt a responsible approach while discussing national issues.

He said political differences should not turn into personal attacks, especially when the country is facing multiple political and economic challenges. "The language used by the PPP chairman was not suitable," he added.

He said leaders seeking to play a national role should focus on unity and constructive dialogue rather than creating divisions.