Ahsan Iqbal Addresses PPP Criticism, Emphasizes Coalition Unity and National Progress
KARACHI:
Planning Minister and PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal downplayed recent criticism from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), emphasizing that the coalition partners’ concerns would be addressed to maintain their alliance.
Speaking at a press conference at the Muslim League House, Iqbal highlighted that national solidarity and collective efforts were essential to overcome economic challenges and ensure peace and stability. He reiterated that the coalition with PPP was based on the Charter of Democracy and a shared vision for national development.
“An effective coordination mechanism exists to address issues among coalition partners,” Iqbal stated, addressing PPP’s grievances.
PPP’s Frustration
Tensions between PPP and PML-N have been brewing for months. On Sunday, PPP spokesperson Shazia Marri criticized the federal government for excluding PPP from key decisions, warning that such sidelining could destabilize the government. “If we withdraw our support, the government will collapse,” Marri warned, urging PML-N to take PPP’s role seriously.
Iqbal assured that misunderstandings would be resolved. “Our partnership with PPP and MQM-P is intact. Minor disagreements are natural among allies, but our understanding with PPP remains strong,” he said.
No Establishment-Politician Nexus
Rejecting claims of a nexus between the establishment and politicians, Iqbal stated that past interventions by the establishment had caused significant setbacks, likening their impact to the 1971 tragedy.
He also criticized the opposition PTI and its founder, accusing them of destabilizing the country through misinformation campaigns and attacks on military installations on May 9, 2023. “Unlike PPP and PML-N, PTI crossed all red lines by targeting military assets,” he added.
Criticism of PTI’s Governance
Iqbal held the PTI government responsible for several economic failures, including damaging Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and causing financial losses through controversial policies. Referring to cases against Imran Khan, he said, “Imran demanded receipts from others, but his own receipts are fake.”
PML-N’s Membership Drive and Sindh Projects
Iqbal announced a PML-N membership campaign to strengthen the party at the grassroots in Sindh. He highlighted past PML-N contributions to the province, such as restoring peace in Karachi, tackling rural crime, initiating mass transit projects, and addressing water supply challenges.
The minister also promoted the ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative, aimed at economic stabilization, job creation, export growth, and agricultural revitalization. He stressed the importance of digital infrastructure, environmental resilience, and improvements in energy, education, and healthcare sectors.
Water Resource Management
Addressing concerns about irrigation canals, Iqbal reassured that the Constitution ensures equitable water distribution among provinces. “No province can take water from another’s share. Propaganda on this issue is baseless,” he clarified.
Review of Development Projects
During his Karachi visit, Iqbal reviewed various projects, including flood victim rehabilitation, the Sukkur-Multan Motorway, and the Karachi-Hyderabad Motorway, in collaboration with Sindh government officials.
Conclusion
Iqbal’s remarks emphasized unity among coalition partners and the PML-N’s commitment to addressing grievances while focusing on national development. His reassurance highlights the government’s efforts to navigate political challenges and advance Pakistan’s progress.
