KARACHI: In a pointed critique, Senator Sherry Rehman, Vice President of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), expressed her deep concern over the divisive rhetoric emerging from Punjab directed at Sindh and the PPP leadership, at a time when Pakistan is grappling with devastating floods. The senator emphasized the need for national unity, as over 6.5 million Pakistanis are affected by the disaster.

Senator Rehman highlighted the importance of collective action, underscoring that the current crisis is not confined to any one province but is a national emergency. She noted that the recent floods have caused damages amounting to Rs3,856 billion, with additional future economic losses estimated at Rs740 billion.

Criticizing the targeting of PPP leaders, including Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Senator Rehman described the attacks as unwarranted. She reminded critics of Prime Minister’s confidence in Bilawal as Foreign Minister and called for an end to the “parochial war of words.”

Senator Rehman advocated for transparency in relief efforts and urged the use of the Benazir Income Support Programme to ensure aid reaches those in need. She dismissed accusations of begging for international aid, pointing out the necessity of seeking support from global organizations like the IMF.

Emphasizing the need for unity, Senator Rehman called for political leaders to focus on addressing the flood crisis rather than engaging in political point scoring. She expressed disappointment over the withdrawal of security for Ali Haider Gilani, a PPP parliamentary leader in Punjab, highlighting the need for coalition partners to work together.

Senator Rehman concluded by urging the government to speak with one voice and warned against taking PPP’s support for granted, advocating for calm and cooperation to navigate the national emergency effectively.