Establishment a stakeholder, should back political setups: Hamza

LAHORE: Former Punjab chief minister Hamza Shehbaz has said that the establishment is a stakeholder in the government setup, urging it to support political governments for the country’s development.

Speaking to journalists at Model Town on Monday, Hamza Shehbaz highlighted the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to eliminate political instability, paving the way for the nation’s progress.

“There are some harsh realities in the country, and we must move forward with them,” said Hamza Shehbaz, acknowledging the establishment as a stakeholder that should support political governments for the nation’s development.

He called on all political parties to unite and guide the country out of its current crisis. In response to a question about the future plans of the PMLN, if it secures government in the next elections, Hamza announced a focus on providing soft loans to the youth and enhancing the agricultural sector. Reflecting on his tenure as chief minister, Hamza revealed that he took action against individuals involved in corruption within his close circle. He stressed the need to eradicate corruption for the country to prosper.

Addressing concerns about interference in the next government’s work, he assured that there was no chance of hindering government continuity.

Hamza said that the incoming government would face numerous responsibilities and underscored the urgency of saving the country.

He said the importance of gradual steps in politics, noting that political workers go through various stages. He critiqued those who, without fatigue, labelled others as thieves and robbers, saying that they had become a cautionary example.

Regarding political intolerance, he advocated for ending it in the country and promoting dialogue. He expressed his willingness to rejoin politics if it takes a positive direction, adding that entering power immorally with a two-thirds majority would lead to the loss of people’s hearts. Acknowledging inflation complaints from opponents, Hamza credited the PMLN for its performance, claiming it provided employment to the youth through small businesses and vocational training institutes. He stressed the need to address youth unemployment to prevent them from falling into the hands of terrorists.

Recalling his time in jail, he shared his experience of contracting COVID-19 due to inadequate facilities and expressed his commitment to improving health facilities in Punjab.

He expressed a deep love for his daughter and wished blessings for all daughters. Meanwhile, PMLN sources revealed plans to conduct a public survey in every constituency to gauge voter sentiment. The party has reportedly ruled out giving tickets to electables and will decide on candidates after Nawaz Sharif completes his countrywide tours.

PMLN Punjab President Rana Sanaullah Khan is addressing concerns and disputes among party leaders, while recent joinings of former parliamentarians have been attributed to the efforts of the former interior minister.

PMLN leader Azma Bukhari emphasised the party’s focus on hardcore leaders and workers for ticket distribution, with no final decision made yet. The deadline for submitting applications for party tickets has also been extended.

The PMLN is currently considering nominating Farooq Maneka instead of Mian Hayaat Manika for the PP-193 Pakpattan constituency in the Punjab Assembly.

Mian Hayaat Manika, who is the son-in-law of Bushra Bibi, may not be the party’s chosen candidate. Mian Hayaat Manika is the son of former federal minister Ata Manika and had contested the 2018 elections on the PMLN ticket.

Conversely, Farooq Manika, having not received the PMLN ticket, ran as an independent candidate in the elections. It has been reported that any reservations within the party about Farooq Manika has been addressed, and he had conducted a press conference alongside former federal minister Rana Sanaullah.

Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman engaged in a telephonic conversation on Monday, TV channels reported.

JUI’s spokesperson said that the conversation primarily revolved around inquiries about Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s health. He added that both leaders reiterated their commitment to addressing national issues through mutual agreement and cooperation. Nawaz Sharif looked forward to an early one-on-one meeting with the JUI-F chief, the spokesperson added.