In a meeting with a delegation from Balochistan, Pakistan Muslim League-N President and nominated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the crucial need to place Pakistan’s interests above political agendas. Undoubtedly, it is only through transcending partisan boundaries and prioritising overarching interests of the nation that we can effectively cope with multidimensional challenges especially on economic and security fronts.
With Shehbaz Sharif nominated for the Prime Minister’s office, expectations run high. Despite criticisms of his previous tenure of sixteen months, Shehbaz Sharif has a track record of being a doer, especially in Punjab. As he assumes the mandate for five years after the election, there are expectations that he will steer the country in right direction. The messages emanating from him during meetings with different political leaders are encouraging, as his leadership is crucial in fostering unity and guiding the country through current challenges. In the wake of general elections, some parties continue to protest against alleged rigging. While some of their concerns may be legitimate, the legal course remains available to them. Resorting to street protests should be a secondary option.
The parliamentary platform provides a forum for constructive engagement and dialogue. All parties must exercise restraint and utilise democratic channels to address grievances. Those with concerns regarding election results should engage constructively in the best national interest. Now is not the time to widen rifts but to bridge them, collectively moving forward for the sake of country. Unity, collaboration and a shared commitment to Pakistan’s interests are essential in overcoming the hurdles ahead. We also expect that governments in the centre as well as provinces will also constructively engage with opposition parties to bring down political temperature. Taking them on board is also important to go ahead with painful and difficult reforms warranted by current circumstances.
