I was not expecting such a formal ceremony to unveil the PML-N manifesto on Saturday. PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif released his party’s election manifesto.
Well, the manifesto is late when there are two weeks left to the February 8 polls. It should have been prepared six months ago and unveiled at least a month ago.
Nawaz Sharif, however, explained that substantial efforts have been invested into the preparation of the manifesto, saying that if the PML-N is voted to power, every aspect of it would be fully implemented.
The nation believes that Nawaz Sharif means whatever he says. This manifesto document is a set of pledges by Nawaz Sharif. I will be watching and tracking the PML-N if it comes into power and how it is going to implement the words.
While sitting in the hall, when Shehbaz Sharif, Ahsan Iqbal, and Senator Irfan Siddiqui were explaining the manifesto, I skimmed the 41-page document. It is all about the country’s economy which is the most crucial aspect of our lives; Nawaz Sharif called it a “strange coincidence” that, despite facing political challenges and being ousted in 2017, his party members are once again gearing up for elections and presenting their manifesto.
Nawaz Sharif refrained from expressing grievances or complaints. In 2018, he was in jail. His wife was in hospital. He had no chance to present his party’s manifesto to the public. Still, he held his calmness and control at work and urged the people to read the manifesto, which had already been discussed by PML-N leaders Shehbaz Sharif, Ahsan Iqbal, and Irfan Siddiqui.
In an indirect reference to ex-premier Imran Khan, Nawaz Sharif remarked, “If I was there
The PML-N’s manifesto encompasses a range of crucial points aimed at steering the country towards a brighter and more sustainable future. One of the key pillars is a commitment to fostering environment-friendly government offices, reflecting the party’s dedication to ecological responsibility and sustainability.
The party recognizes the importance of upholding the supremacy of Parliament, advocating for the restoration of Articles 62 and 63 to their original state. This move is a step towards reinforcing democratic values and ensuring the proper functioning of legislative processes.
Addressing the longstanding need for judicial and legal reform, the manifesto calls for a comprehensive reformation of the judicial and legal system. The PML-N envisions implementing a timely and effective judicial system, ensuring fair and efficient prosecution. The commitment includes a promise to expedite major and difficult cases within a year and resolve smaller cases within two months, demonstrating a commitment to swift justice.
A noteworthy proposal put forth in the manifesto is the abolishment of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). Instead, the party aims to strengthen anti-corruption institutions and agencies, proposing amendments to the Penal Code of 1898 and 1906 to enhance the legal framework against corruption.
In a bid to empower the agricultural sector, the PML-N outlines initiatives such as the provision of interest-free loans to small farmers and the utilization of modern technology to mitigate crop damage. The establishment of a Special Council and Implementation Council is proposed to ensure the effective implementation of the Agriculture Innovation and Farmer Prosperity Manifesto, with quarterly reports on government performance.
The manifesto also pledges a comprehensive overhaul of the governance system, with a commitment to create over 10 million jobs, reduce poverty and unemployment, and increase the budget for education. The party envisions cheap and reliable power supply, aiming to reduce utility bills for the citizens.
In the healthcare sector, the PML-N proposes the establishment of cancer hospitals in every province, coupled with free treatment facilities for low-income individuals. This reflects the party’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare to all segments of society.
On the international front, the manifesto advocates for a message of peace across borders and emphasizes building relations with India based on economic development, peace, and mutual respect. This diplomatic approach underscores the party’s vision for regional stability and cooperation.
The PML-N’s manifesto stands as a comprehensive roadmap for a transformed Pakistan, addressing key issues across various sectors. With its focus on environmental responsibility, democratic values, judicial reform, economic prosperity, and social welfare, the party aims to chart a course toward a more inclusive, just, and progressive Pakistan in the upcoming general elections.
