Qureshi slams use of government machinery for Sharif rally

MULTAN: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vice chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Saturday that ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif was an ordinary citizen, not head of a political party in the eyes of law.

Speaking to reporters, Qureshi said the PML-N government was utilizing government resources and machinery for what he said an ordinary citizen in an apparent reference to Sharif. The disqualified PM was not even eligible to head a political party, he added.   

Slamming the new federal cabinet, PTI vice chairman said the 45-day prime minister could not form a cabinet of 47 members. The PML-N has changed its mind as it will allow Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to lead the government for the party’s remaining term.

“If Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif is elevated to the National Assembly, the party will have no consensus leader to replace him in Punjab province as Hamza does not enjoy the support of Nawaz camp. Thus, the party changed its mind.”

He was referring to the PML-N’s decision following the disqualification of Sharif by the Supreme Court to appoint Abbasi for the interim period of 45 days until Shahbaz Sharif is elected to the NA seat to become eligible for the coveted post of Prime Minister.

Qureshi said the country’s constitution doesn’t allow criticism on two institutions, including the Supreme Court and Pakistan army, yet political parties heap scorn on these two institutions in violation of the constitution. They should review their actions, he advised them.

In an apparent reference to the PML-N leaders’ outburst before the disqualification verdict, Qureshi said the Panama Papers case was billed as a conspiracy by them who warned against disqualifying Sharif for it would put democratic set up in danger, but the aftermath proved them wrong as democracy has strengthened with the decision.

He was grateful of Pakistan Muslim League Qaid-e-Azam for supporting PTI candidate Dr Yasmin Rashid for the NA-120 election and added PTI would approach other political parties to garner support for its candidate.

Qureshi praised the sacrifices made by the armed forces in the fight against terrorism.