Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry on Friday urged Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) President and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to play a role in resolving the ongoing political turmoil in the country.
Talking to the media after appearing before an anti-terrorism court (ATC), Fawad Chaudhry emphasized the need for political dialogue to address Pakistan’s deepening instability. He said the country’s political tensions had reached a critical stage, while the opposition had failed to engage meaningfully in negotiations.
He remarked that the “real heirs” of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) were currently behind bars, whereas what he termed “guest actors” within the party were unwilling to participate in talks. He criticised the government for showing leniency towards these individuals, many of whom, he said, were freely travelling abroad instead of contributing to resolving the political crisis.
Fawad Chaudhry called on the government to release political prisoners, including Bushra Bibi and Dr Yasmeen Rashid, to ease political pressure and create space for dialogue. He added that Nawaz Sharif, given his long political experience, could play a constructive role in breaking the political deadlock.
Highlighting the country’s economic challenges, the former minister cited a recent government survey indicating that 30 per cent of the population is unable to afford three meals a day. He said income levels had fallen back to 2015 standards while living costs had surged, putting severe pressure on the salaried class, which now faces a 40 per cent tax hike, as well as on sectors like real estate.
He also mentioned that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi was visiting Karachi and urged him to make efforts to bring people closer through responsible politics.
Meanwhile, the anti-terrorism court extended the interim bail of Fawad Chaudhry until February 13. ATC Judge Manzoor Ali Gill heard five cases related to the May 9 violence and arson incidents. The court directed the prosecution to submit case records.
Fawad Chaudhry is facing cases related to the burning of a vehicle at Jinnah House Chowk and arson at Sherpao Bridge.
