ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Punjab General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza, during a press conference held in Islamabad, expressed significant criticism of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) concerning its governance and policies. He emphasized that the PPP, while an ally, will not shy away from highlighting public grievances and party concerns.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Syed Hassan Murtaza underscored that the PPP has always focused on principled politics aimed at resolving public issues, with no room for compromise. He stated, "We have entered into an alliance with PML-N to safeguard democracy and ensure the country’s stability, but we are not receiving due credit for the government’s successful initiatives. Instead, we face the repercussions of its flawed policies."
Addressing the PML-N leadership's current focus on Azad Kashmir, Murtaza accused them of prioritizing personal political gains in a sensitive region, thereby undermining national unity. He highlighted the PPP’s historical sacrifices for democracy and the Constitution, referencing past leaders who laid down their lives for these causes.
Murtaza further criticized the PML-N government in Punjab, alleging that its achievements are limited to superficial projects and that it lacks substantial policies to alleviate public distress. He cited retaliatory legal actions against PPP members in Punjab as evidence of political victimization.
Questioning the effectiveness of Punjab's criminal justice system, Murtaza presented troubling statistics on unresolved cases of domestic violence and kidnappings, challenging the authorities to address these serious issues.
He also addressed economic policy negotiations, indicating that PPP intentionally avoided federal ministries to stay clear of undue pressure and marginalization, particularly in discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Drawing a comparison between Sindh and Punjab, Murtaza defended Sindh's development efforts and criticized the portrayal of Thar, a region he claimed is now a development success story. He contrasted this with Punjab's alleged lack of tangible public benefits.
Regarding the creation of new provinces, Murtaza advocated for consensus and dialogue, warning against hasty decisions in a financially strained country. He criticized the narrative as a diversionary tactic against PPP.
In conclusion, Murtaza lamented recent tragedies in Rawalpindi and Lahore, condemning the Punjab government for what he described as inadequate responses to citizen safety and accountability.