Asif Zardari Believes Dialogue is Key to Resolving Issues, Says Bilawal Bhutto
PPP’s Shagufta Jumani highlighted Asif Zardari’s contributions to democracy and federalism, recalling his efforts to empower provinces through the 18th Amendment.
Islamabad: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving national issues, highlighting the views of former President Asif Ali Zardari during a session of the National Assembly. Bilawal stated, “Asif Zardari believes that without dialogue, no issues can be resolved.”
During his speech, Bilawal noted that for the first time in Pakistan’s history, a civilian president has addressed the assembly seven times. He underscored the significance of maintaining decorum and respect in political discourse, criticizing the tendency to belittle opponents.
Earlier, Mustafa Kamal of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) expressed concerns about the state of political discourse in the assembly. Speaking under the chairmanship of Deputy Speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Kamal criticized those who disrespectfully leave the assembly after portraying themselves as righteous. He condemned the celebration that followed President Zardari’s speech, calling it inappropriate and detrimental to the country’s dignity.
Kamal highlighted the pressing issues faced by Karachi, Pakistan’s revenue hub, and criticized the lack of basic amenities such as water. He appealed to the President to address the city’s long-standing issues, including the illegal water tanker mafia, and lamented that 70 million children in Sindh are out of school.
PPP leader Shehla Raza also addressed the assembly, praising Asif Zardari for his political acumen and his efforts to unite political parties for the national interest. She recalled PPP’s historical stance against martial law and dictatorship, citing Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s resistance to authoritarian rule. Raza emphasized that Zardari even engaged in dialogue with those who celebrated Bhutto’s execution, advocating for political stability alongside economic stability.
PTI leader Riaz Fatyana spoke about the wheat crisis affecting farmers and the corruption in obtaining government-issued wheat sacks. He stressed the need for meaningful and result-oriented negotiations, calling for the release of political prisoners, including PTI’s founder, Imran Khan.
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PPP’s Shagufta Jumani highlighted Asif Zardari’s contributions to democracy and federalism, recalling his efforts to empower provinces through the 18th Amendment. She praised Zardari for promoting unity and peace, even after enduring personal sacrifices and wrongful imprisonment.
In a rebuttal, PML-N’s Aasiya Tanoli criticized PTI’s governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, questioning the lack of significant reforms despite a decade-long rule. She pointed out the disillusionment of the people, which culminated in the events of May 9.
The session underscored the diverse perspectives within Pakistan’s political landscape, highlighting the ongoing challenges and the urgent need for dialogue and cooperation to address the nation’s pressing issues.
