PPP Condemns CM’s Statements Amid Rising Tensions in Coalition

Islamabad: In a media talk today outside the Parliament House, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Central Spokesperson Shazia Marri, accompanied by MNA Sehar Kamran, strongly condemned and expressed regret over the recent statements made by the Chief Minister of Punjab. Marri highlighted that these remarks, also denounced in the National Assembly, are seen as attempts by Maryam Nawaz to undermine national unity, prompting a call for the Prime Minister to address the issue.

The PPP spokesperson emphasized that a walkout was staged in the National Assembly, signaling potential reconsideration of the party’s participation in future sessions if the situation remains unresolved. Marri criticized the government’s focus on political point-scoring instead of providing relief to flood victims, with over four million people affected. She stressed that the PPP has consistently advocated for aid in flood-stricken regions while the administration perpetuates division.

Marri expressed concerns over the coalition’s stability, noting that the PPP supported PML-N for democratic continuity, yet current actions threaten this alliance. Queries from the public about the shrinking political space due to PML-N support were addressed, with Marri underscoring PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s commitment to constructive politics and relief efforts, including transparent cash disbursements through the Benazir Income Support Programme.

She further argued that natural resources like water and air are national assets, not confined to any province, and highlighted Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s international advocacy for the River Indus. Marri called for immediate attention from the Prime Minister, stressing that such divisive statements harm the nation.

Additionally, Marri praised the active defense role of Frontier Corps personnel in Quetta, questioning the reluctance to engage in dialogue with fellow citizens. She reiterated that no single party owns any province, advocating for a united Pakistan and stronger parliamentary democracy, alongside calls for briefings on international agreements.

On a related note, Sehar Kamran acknowledged the challenges faced by the Pakistan Armed Forces both at borders and internally. While welcoming progress in Punjab, she emphasized the need for project completion in Sindh, urging against promoting hatred and division, as it compromises national interests.