In a passionate plea directed at all political parties, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), urged a collective trust in the decisions of the people. Speaking at a workers’ convention in Abbottabad, Bilawal fervently called for a departure from entrenched political leadership, advocating for the emergence of a leader with no prior experience in holding power.
In his address, he critically evaluated longstanding political practices, branding them as the country’s “biggest enemy” and emphasizing the imperative need for a fresh approach to governance.
Bilawal highlighted the formidable challenges posed by historic levels of inflation and poverty, asserting that while resolving these issues required a strong ideological foundation, it was not an insurmountable task. He pledged that, if given the opportunity, a PPP-led government would be dedicated to addressing these pressing concerns and ensuring a more equitable and prosperous future for the people of Pakistan.
Expressing confidence in the democratic process, Bilawal urged political parties to trust the Pakistani electorate. He underscored the inadequacy of rulers, governments, and bureaucracies in understanding the ground realities and the sufferings of the people. This formed the basis of his call for new leadership unbound by the limitations of the past.
“The biggest enemy of Pakistan is old politics,” declared Bilawal, emphasizing the urgency of replacing the old guard to usher in a new political era. He called for an end to political games that have persisted for the last 70 years, advocating for a decisive break from traditional political approaches. Bilawal’s appeal transcended party lines as he sought collaboration and trust from all political factions, trusting the people and placing faith in the democratic process to create a fresh narrative for the country’s political landscape.
Despite challenges, Bilawal expressed confidence in the potential of the upcoming general elections, scheduled for February 8, 2024, to bring about a positive shift in the country’s trajectory. He dismissed doubts about election delays, pointing to unanimity among the judiciary, executive, and politicians in upholding the announced election date. Acknowledging the need for a level playing field, Bilawal emphasized the mutual responsibility of the government and the Election Commission of Pakistan in ensuring fair and transparent elections.
Bilawal affirmed the government’s commitment to providing such a level playing field and called for the nation’s trust in this assurance. Addressing concerns raised by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), Bilawal revealed that he had brought attention to these apprehensions through a letter. He clarified his role as a non-partisan spokesperson for all Pakistanis, committing to identifying and addressing issues responsibly.
Looking ahead, Bilawal outlined a vision for a PPP-led government prioritizing the reduction of inflation and the eradication of poverty. He promised to expand the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and introduce projects benefiting various segments of society. Initiatives such as farmer cards and the nationwide extension of the Mazdoor Card pilot project were highlighted to provide relief to farmers and improve access to education and health facilities.
In a bid for transparent governance, Bilawal pledged to prevent any unfair advantage of subsidies, commit to doubling employee salaries within five years, and promote business activities to make Pakistan a model state.
Confident in PPP’s prospects, Bilawal proclaimed that the PPP would form the next government at the Centre and in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province after winning the upcoming general elections.
Various PPP leaders, including Provincial President Muhammad Ali Shah, General Secretary Shuja Salem Khan, and other party office-bearers, addressed the convention, which also included prominent figures such as PPP Secretary General Nayyar Bukhari, former minister Humayun Khan, former K-P speaker Karamatullah Chaghar Mati, Senator Rubina Khalid, and others.
