Zardari to ensure new NFC awards to provinces: Khuhro

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Sindh President Nisar Khuhro on Saturday congratulated PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari for securing a majority vote (411) and being elected the 14th president of the country.

Speaking to the media at the provincial assembly, Khuhro said that with the arrival of the “18th amendment’s architect”, Zardari, the constitutional provision would remain intact, and the implementation of complete provincial autonomy would be guaranteed.

He said that steps would be taken to address the pending aspects of provincial autonomy. With Zardari assuming the presidency, the implementation of the new National Finance Commission (NFC) Award is expected to facilitate a smoother financial distribution among the provinces, strengthening their economic foundations, he added.

He stressed that the provinces’ share in the new NFC Award be increased to more than 57 per cent, saying that this adjustment can significantly contribute to the provinces.

He pointed out that strong provinces are indicative of a strong federation, advocating for the transfer of ministries previously under the federal government to the provinces following the abolition of the concurrent list. He said the expenses of these ministries, once shifted to the provinces, would enhance their economic strength.

Khuhro said Zardari’s victory in the presidential election would ensure the continuity of democracy in the country. He said the parliament would complete its constitutional term, hoping for political and economical stability under democratic governance.

‘Surprises ahead’

Pakistan Peoples Party leader Nasir Hussain Shah said on Saturday that “surprises” would be witnessed across Pakistan, including Sindh, after the presidential election.

Speaking after casting his vote in the Sindh Assembly, Shah commented that under the presidency of Asif Ali Zardari, the journey of progress and unity would commence in Pakistan.

PPP leader Sharjeel Memon said Zardari had empowered the parliament. He said that Zardari contributed significantly to the National Finance Commission (NFC) and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

He said that Zardari would unite the four provinces and bring all institutions together.

Memon added that to propel the country forward, the politics of hatred and blaming must come to an end.

He said Maulana Fazlur Rehman decided not to vote in the presidential election, while the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf used to dislike Mahmood Khan Achakzai in the past.

He said that Achakzai criticized state institutions, and anyone who speaks against the same became the PTI’s favourite candidate.

The PPP leader said that Achakzai should explain how the 2018 elections were conducted. He said Achakzai represented a party that came to power through “unconventional means”.