Zardari says boycotting elections would be a huge political mistake

LAHORE: Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday said that this is the time for elections, and not accountability, while they have faced cases while even in opposition.

The PPP chairman, while giving an interview to a private TV election, also responded to ongoing investigations against him, saying accusations are being made worth 40bn rupees of corruption but they only received a notice seeking explanation of Rs10.5 million.

“This is the time for elections, not accountability.  We have faced cases while even in while in opposition,” he said.

When asked about the political future of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, he said that politicians never die, but whether Nawaz Sharif will be given another opportunity depends on the circumstances. However, he said they will ensure that democracy is not derailed.

Zardari dismissed any impression saying it would be a huge political mistake to boycott the election. He said that party that intends to form the next government will have to talk to them, but maintained that they will not support any undemocratic forces.

“We will not boycott the election and give a free hand to anyone. Running the government also requires any opposition,” he said.

Zardari said that he had advised Nawaz Sharif to support democracy together, but he digressed and was responsible for his current circumstances. Dismissing any comparison with the illustrious Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, he said that Nawaz Sharif could not even defend him during trial.

He alleged that eminent banker Hussain Lawai, who is currently under arrest by law-enforcement agencies, is being tortured which is strongly condemnable. “Those who have been to jail know the difference between Class A, B and C.”

Responding to a question, Zardari said the army is an institution and has a critical role in the governance of the country, and any attempt to harm the armed forces will also affect the nation.