Lahore: Amid failed negotiations between the government and the opposition, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced a nationwide protest campaign after Eid. In response, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has vowed that the government will not allow political groups lacking democratic values to stage long marches or violent demonstrations.
Speaking at his Jati Umra residence in Lahore, Nawaz Sharif, without naming PTI directly, suggested that certain elements were attempting to create unnecessary political crises. He asserted that the country could not afford any further instability and that progress achieved under the PML-N government should not be derailed.
“The people of Pakistan will not tolerate any efforts to disrupt the nation’s progress,” he emphasized, adding that had the momentum of 2013 been maintained, the country would not have needed external financial assistance. He also urged his party members to remain engaged with the public and counter disruptive political narratives.
Sharif further accused certain groups of lacking the ability to engage in constructive political dialogue, warning that their disruptive tactics would be thwarted. His statements align with the PML-N's broader stance that the economy is on the path to recovery and should not be destabilized.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also took aim at PTI founder Imran Khan, indirectly blaming him for fostering a culture of political hostility and extremism. Addressing a gathering, she posed rhetorical questions about who introduced divisive politics in Pakistan, prompting the audience to respond with Imran Khan’s name.
She contrasted her administration’s approach with that of PTI, stating that while her government was distributing laptops to students, PTI had armed its supporters with petrol bombs and batons. “I will never forgive those who have harmed the country,” she declared.
Maryam Nawaz also emphasized that her tenure in office is dedicated to serving the public, insisting that she has never used her position for personal gain. “Every moment in power is spent in the service of the people,” she stated.
