Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif once again acknowledged India's progress and global advancements, drawing a stark contrast with Pakistan's ongoing challenges. Speaking to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members in Islamabad, Sharif lamented that while neighboring countries have achieved feats like reaching the moon, Pakistan has struggled to elevate itself.
Highlighting Pakistan's challenging economic situation, the PML-N leader asserted that the responsibility for the nation's struggles lies within. Sharif acknowledged, “Our neighbors have reached the moon, but we haven't even risen from the ground so far. It can't continue like this.”
“We have been responsible for our own downfall; otherwise, this nation would have reached a different place,” he added.
Sharif, a potential contender for Prime Minister for the fourth time, reflected on past achievements during his tenure, emphasizing the transformation in 2013. He cited addressing electricity shortages, combating terrorism, restoring peace in Karachi, developing highways, initiating CPEC, and fostering a period of growth.
Noting his three previous oustings from power in 1993, 1999, and 2017, Sharif admitted culpability for the current crises, stating, “we shot ourselves in the foot.”
Discussing inflation, he pointed out that during his term, a roti was priced at PKR 2 in Aabpara, Islamabad, compared to the current PKR 30.
Addressing alleged false cases against him and other PML-N leaders, Sharif highlighted the Islamabad High Court's annulment of convictions in two cases within three hearings.
Advocating for women's empowerment in national development, the former Pakistan PM stressed the importance of women's active participation in the country's progress. He reiterated the demand for accountability regarding his 2017 ousting, emphasizing, “I have no right to pardon those who are the enemy of the people.”
-By Aditya Ahuja
