Former prime minister and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Raja Pervez Ashraf has firmly rejected claims linking him to alleged drug suspect Anmol, commonly known as Pinky.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Ashraf said he had maintained an honorable reputation throughout his public life.
“I have led a spotless life. I have served as a former prime minister and former NA speaker,” he told the House.
He also made it clear that he was ready to face any investigation into the matter.
Viral Video Sparks Political Controversy
The controversy began after a video from Pinky’s recent court appearance went viral on social media.
In the clip, she appears to say the words “Raja Pervez” before police officers surrounding her drown out the rest of her statement.
However, another video later surfaced in which her lawyer claimed she was under pressure to name certain politicians.
Earlier, during a court appearance on May 18, the suspect said she was being pressured “to take names”.
As a result, the issue quickly became a hot topic online.
Raja Pervez Ashraf Says He Was Surprised
Ashraf said he was shocked when he first heard his name.
“When I heard the name, I thought perhaps it is a different Raja Pervez Ashraf,” he said.
He added that social media users and vloggers began discussing the clip almost immediately.
Nevertheless, he said his family, party leaders, and even political opponents defended him.
According to Ashraf, their support reflected the trust he has built over decades.
Former Prime Minister Offers Himself for Probe
Ashraf stressed that he had nothing to hide.
“I present myself for any probe in this regard,” he said.
He suggested that naming public figures may have been an attempt to “deflect attention” from the case itself.
At the same time, he warned against drawing conclusions before investigators establish the facts.
PPP Leader Calls for Action Against Media Trials
Ashraf urged Parliament to create a legal framework to prevent baseless accusations from dominating media coverage.
He said innocent people and their families should not suffer because of unverified claims.
“There should not be a media trial” of anyone until guilt is proven, he stated.
Moreover, he said such incidents place unnecessary emotional pressure on families.
Law Minister Expresses Full Support
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar strongly defended Raja Pervez Ashraf.
“The entire house stands with you,” Tarar said.
He described the allegation as “so frivolous in nature that no one here would ever pay heed to it”.
Tarar added that the government would examine the issue and consult the relevant authorities.
“Action will be taken at the state level,” he assured.
Government to Review Media Coverage
Tarar also criticized the extensive media focus on the suspect’s court appearances.
He urged media organizations to consider “morality, dignity and honour” while reporting sensitive cases.
In addition, he said investigators would examine why the suspect’s lawyer later issued a contradictory statement.
He promised to update Parliament after the review.
Speaker Warns of Growing Drug Threat
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq used the discussion to highlight the broader problem of drug abuse.
He said narcotics were hollowing out society and affecting educational institutions.
Therefore, he called on lawmakers to develop stronger legislation to curb drug use across the country.
Cross-Party Support for Raja Pervez Ashraf
The debate ended with lawmakers from across the political spectrum expressing solidarity with Raja Pervez Ashraf.
For now, the former prime minister remains confident that any impartial inquiry will clear his name.
He insists his public record speaks for itself.
