Islamabad: PML-N President Nawaz Sharif has questioned why people would heed PTI founder Imran Khan’s call for a “final protest,” accusing him of tarnishing the country’s image during his tenure as prime minister.
In an informal interaction with reporters in London, Nawaz asked, “What has Imran Khan done during his tenure that people would protest for him?” He criticized Imran’s governance, pointing out the lack of significant development projects.
“Tell me, can Imran claim he built a motorway, launched a power project, or ended loadshedding? His performance is zero,” Nawaz said. He accused Imran of prioritizing political conspiracies over the country’s progress.
Imran’s Protest Plan
Imran Khan, through his lawyer Faisal Chaudhry, announced plans for a protest march on November 24. The PTI founder declared it a “final call” against the government, with the party’s leadership participating in Islamabad and other locations across Pakistan and globally.
Chaudhry revealed that a committee had been formed to organize the march, but its members’ names were being withheld due to fears of arrests.
Internal PTI Concerns
Reports suggest senior PTI leaders have advised against rushing into a major protest without thorough planning. They warned of potential backlash if the demonstration fails.
Nawaz Accuses Imran of Damaging Democracy
Nawaz accused Imran of conspiring with former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar to disqualify him in 2016, undermining democracy. He claimed that Imran’s actions harmed Pakistan, leaving behind a legacy of economic and political instability.
The PML-N leader also alleged that Imran, along with former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa and ex-ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed, targeted the PML-N during his tenure.
Praises for PM Shehbaz Sharif
Nawaz lauded the efforts of his brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in reviving the country’s economy. He highlighted improving economic indicators, claiming Pakistan is now on the path to recovery and prosperity.
“Pakistan has come out of difficulties,” he said, adding that obstacles continue to hinder development efforts.
Nawaz stated that Imran Khan and his allies must be held accountable for their actions before calling for protests. He accused them of harming the nation and failing to deliver on their promises.
The PML-N president also expressed resentment over being denied permission to visit London to meet his ailing wife, Kulsoom Nawaz, during Imran’s tenure.