In farewell address, Shehbaz hopes Kakar will hold fair elections

Minute Mirror - Subscribe
Minute Mirror - Subscribe

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted that history and records will bear witness to Pakistan’s remarkable turnaround from the brink of bankruptcy within an incredibly short span. He affirmed that under his leadership, the nation’s ship, once sailing through tumultuous waters, has been steered to peaceful shores.

In his farewell address to the nation, the Prime Minister disclosed that Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar has been appointed the caretaker Prime Minister in consultation with the opposition leader, Raja Riaz. He expressed hope that the caretaker Prime Minister, Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, will ensure the conduct of transparent and impartial elections.

Furthermore, Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that the preceding government had untangled Pakistan from the web of constraining conditions that bound the nation. This liberation not only dispelled the shadows of the past but also illuminated the path towards a promising future.

Acknowledging the challenges faced, the Prime Minister disclosed that the former government had terminated the agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and left obstacles for the incoming administration.

Shehbaz Sharif declared that he entered the political arena following the constitutional course, and now departs with a clear conscience and heart. Handing over the reins of the country to the caretaker government, he emphasized that national interests were safeguarded throughout his tenure. He noted his efforts in aiding flood victims, supporting vulnerable populations, and strengthening diplomatic bonds with friendly nations.

Highlighting achievements, the Prime Minister proudly noted the addition of five thousand megawatts of electricity to the national grid, the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) 100 index crossing the 49,000-point threshold (the highest in six years), and providing freedom and rights to the media and its workers.

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to aiding flood victims, distributing cash and goods worth 100 billion rupees to 33 million victims, distributing free flour worth 70 billion rupees to thousands during Ramadan, and expanding the Danish school initiative to Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Sharif addressed the notion that taking loans does not define success, reflecting on the challenging 16-month journey of navigating through obstacles. He recounted the pivotal decision to prioritize the stability of the nation over political advantage, stressing that the country’s well-being was paramount.

He acknowledged the challenges faced, including conspiracies, inflation, and attempts to disrupt government operations. However, he affirmed that the nation stood strong, with shortages averted and normalcy maintained.

Closing his address, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs and veterans who had served the nation, reaffirming the nation’s pride in their devotion and dedication.