ISLAMABAD: In a significant twist of events, the eagerly anticipated meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Raja Riaz, intended to finalize a candidate for the caretaker prime minister position, has been postponed. This announcement was made by the Prime Minister himself during his farewell speech to the joint session of parliament. However, the leader of the opposition refuted the claims and said he would meet the PM soon.
The postponement has introduced an element of uncertainty regarding the critical decision of the caretaker prime minister. However, the opposition leader has contradicted recent reports of a deferred meeting. He reiterated his expectation of an imminent discussion with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Raja Riaz clarified that the circulating information regarding today’s meeting being postponed is inaccurate. He emphasized that the scheduled meeting between himself and the Prime Minister is indeed forthcoming.
He stated, “The talks between the Prime Minister and I are anticipated to occur today,” underlining the ongoing nature of the conversation. Moreover, he stressed that the exact details regarding the meeting’s location and timing are yet to be confirmed.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Addresses The National Assembly Before His Government’s Tenure Ends
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the final session of the National Assembly as his government’s tenure ends today. He emphasized that the May 9 riots were a rebellion against Pakistan’s Armed Forces and COAS General Syed Asim Munir. He also expressed gratitude to lawmakers for their work during the 16-month PDM tenure and blamed the previous PTI government for damaging bilateral relations with friendly nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the riots on May 9 were a form of rebellion against the Pakistan Armed Forces and COAS. He claimed that the actions were aimed at degrading the image of the armed forces to achieve political goals.
The PM highlighted that the events of May 9 insulted the valorous individuals and martyrs of the Pakistan Army. He also characterized the 16 months of the PDM’s governance as the most arduous test of his life.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to all lawmakers for their efforts toward the country’s improvement throughout the 16-month tenure of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM).
Shehbaz Sharif blamed Imran Khan’s government, accusing it of causing harm to Pakistan’s bilateral relationships with friendly and fraternal nations. He pointed out that the former Prime Minister’s actions had detrimental effects on Pakistan’s relations with the United States and also impacted Sino-Pak relations.
Regarding the imprisonment of Imran Khan, Shehbaz Sharif conveyed that his party was not pleased about it. He commented that Khan’s fate was a result of his own actions.
Acknowledging the fair demands of Balochistan province, Shehbaz Sharif affirmed his acceptance of these demands. However, he acknowledged that there were still grievances from individuals and journalists within Balochistan.
Additionally, the PM paid tribute and expressed his appreciation to Asif Ali Zardari for demonstrating unity with the PDM. He commended Zardari’s commitment to supporting their government’s policies.
