‘PMLN, PPP enjoy strong working relationship’

LAHORE: Acting Governor Malik M Ahmad Khan while speaking at Sufi Festival, said that there are no issues at the party level between PMLN and PPP. While individuals may express different opinions, overall a strong working relationship exists between both the parties.

While speaking to the media, Malik M Ahmad Khan refrained from commenting on the ongoing negotiations between the govt and PTI, however, he asserted that if these talks resulted in concealing any crimes, he would be the first to criticise them. The three-day Sufi Festival will continue from January 7 to 9, featuring a variety of activities, including Sufi Art & Craft Exhibition, Sufi Calligraphy, Sufi Music, Panel Discussions, Whirling Dervish Dance (Raqs-e-Darvesh), Sufi Poetry, Qawwali (Sama), and Langar (Community Feast).

Discussing Punjab’s governance, Khan highlighted that the provincial government is giving special attention to public welfare projects. He stated that revolutionary steps are being taken to improve the health, education, and sanitation systems, while further enhancements in road infrastructure are also underway.

He also praised the Punjab CM’s decision to procure wheat, stating that this decision has proven to be beneficial over time, and its positive impact is reaching the public. Addressing the events of May 9, Khan categorised the involved individuals into two groups those who were incited to attack, whose actions may be considered for leniency, and those who orchestrated the events, whose crimes are absolutely unforgivable. He also condemned false propaganda on social media and emphasised that there must be a clear distinction between politics and crime. Burning down properties is not a political right, and a difference must be recognised between political expression and inciting unrest, he elaborated.

On a question regarding military institutions, Malik Ahmad Khan stated that the notion of gaining popularity by attacking military leaders and institutions must change, as it only fuels instability in the country.

He said that Sufi thought has always promoted love, tolerance and coexistence. He emphasised that the teachings of Sufi saints have played a vital role in transforming hearts and spreading the true message of Islam across the region.

Paying tribute to the Sufi saints of the subcontinent at an event held on Tuesday, he remarked that these revered personalities were institutions in themselves, winning hearts through their character and actions. He further added that love, peace and the eradication of poverty are among the noblest causes, and this festival serves as a positive step in advancing this philosophy.