Former Premier and PML-N veteran
ISLAMABAD: Former Premier Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi labeled the outgoing National Assembly as the “worst assembly.”
He criticized the assembly for passing government bills that favored the government’s interests. The bills, however, gave no relief to the masses. Abbasi addressed the National Assembly on Wednesday, a day ahead of its dissolution.
Abbasi asserted that none of the legislation passed in the last five years aimed to benefit the people. He emphasized that the government’s credibility has been severely damaged. Abbasi said that mere legislation cannot restore public confidence; concrete actions are needed.
A photo of the National Assembly. Former Premier called the PML-N led as the worst assembly.
Abbasi projected that it would take another decade to revitalize the country’s economy, placing the responsibility on everyone.
He suggested the formation of a truth commission to investigate those accountable for the country’s situation. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi highlighted numerous parliamentarians surrounding the interior minister for his signatures on government licenses.
Abbasi expressed dismay over the rapid passage of 40 to 53 bills from private members in the National Assembly a a few days. He said that it raises doubts about the integrity of the house members.
Former premier directed his attention to the speaker, highlighting the speaker’s role as the guardian of the house’s reputation.
Abbasi criticized the diminishing dignity of the house, with a perception that parliamentarians entered solely to amass wealth. He called upon the chair and fellow members to uphold the dignity of the institution.
He criticized the practice of imposing taxes while not contributing themselves. Abbasi pointed out the paradox of members leaving Parliament House with significant wealth, private employees, and security, while their own tax compliance remains uncertain.
Abbasi further exposed the government’s reliance on loans with high interest rates for its operations.
