Criticizing the recent arrests of PTI lawmakers during Sunday’s crackdown, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari warned the PML-N-led coalition government of the consequences of victimizing political opponents, similar to actions taken by the previous Imran Khan administration.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Bilawal cautioned that if the government continues to focus on deciding “who to imprison today” in retaliation for actions taken by Khan’s government, it could lead to a cycle where both current and former leaders could end up in jail together. He emphasized the importance of not repeating the mistakes of the past, stating, “You may be pleased today, but tomorrow, we could be in the same jail.”
Bilawal also criticized PTI lawmakers for failing to respect parliamentary proceedings, using the same confrontational tone inside the house that they display at public rallies. He stressed the importance of maintaining a working relationship within the parliament, regardless of political differences expressed in rallies.
The PPP leader acknowledged that while his party is part of the coalition government, it holds differing views from the PML-N, particularly regarding economic policies. However, he underscored the need for constitutional supremacy in all institutions.
Taking aim at Imran Khan, Bilawal stated that the former prime minister, who ruled from 2018 to 2022, had damaged the political climate. He encouraged PTI lawmakers to focus on legal battles rather than resorting to confrontational tactics. He also advised them not to abandon their parliamentary committees, criticizing their “stubbornness” in withdrawing from national and provincial assemblies despite his warnings.
Bilawal also referenced the “Charter of Democracy” between the PPP and PML-N, highlighting how certain forces have worked to undermine political consensus in the past. He urged the National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq to restore the functionality of the house and extend its influence across the country.
The National Assembly earlier adopted a resolution to form a 16-member committee to address the aftermath of PTI lawmakers’ arrests within the Parliament House. The arrests were linked to alleged violations of the newly enacted Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill, 2024, during the PTI rally in Islamabad. Speaker Sadiq also suspended several security officials following the security breach that led to the arrests inside the assembly premises.
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