By Our Correspondent
LAHORE- Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Central Punjab General Secretary Syed Hassan Murtaza has said that the party believes in political dialogue and constructive criticism, adding that being an ally does not mean remaining silent over wrong policies.
Addressing a press conference at the People’s Secretariat in Model Town, Lahore, along with PPP Information Secretary Shahzad Saeed Cheema and MPA Shazia Abid, Hassan Murtaza said the PPP was united at the federal and provincial levels but would continue its political activities and raise public issues.
He condemned the alleged violence against PPP workers in Lahore and demanded an inquiry into the incident. He questioned why the party’s convention at Minar-e-Pakistan was stopped, saying political parties have the right to conduct political activities.
Discussing the upcoming Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections, Hassan Murtaza said the PPP had presented its manifesto and was committed to strengthening the rights and development of the people of Kashmir.
He said the PPP had historically worked for Kashmiris by providing identity, rights, passports and employment opportunities. He added that the party had accepted and implemented 33 out of 35 demands presented by the Joint Action Committee, while constitutionally restricted demands could only be addressed through parliament.
Hassan Murtaza said the PPP’s manifesto of “Roti, Kapra Aur Makan” remained focused on public welfare and employment opportunities. He claimed that if the PPP formed a government in AJK, it would fulfil its commitments.
Commenting on political criticism against the PPP, he said attempts to distort history were unacceptable. He defended former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s role regarding Kashmir and said the PPP had always supported the political and constitutional rights of Kashmiris.
Talking about the economic situation, Hassan Murtaza criticised rising fuel prices and said diesel price increases had affected agriculture, transport and daily life. He said governments could not function effectively without addressing inflation and public concerns.
He also criticised Punjab government policies, alleging that development projects and governance issues required accountability. He called for investigations into various matters, including road conditions and regulatory failures.
Regarding political differences with allies, Hassan Murtaza said, “We are allies, but we will point out mistakes.” He added that constructive criticism was part of democratic politics.
PPP Information Secretary Shahzad Saeed Cheema said Lahore had remained a showcase city of Pakistan for decades, adding that recent conditions in the provincial capital required attention. He said the PPP was preparing for electoral activities in AJK and would continue its political struggle.
MPA Shazia Abid alleged that Punjab government resources were being used for election purposes in AJK and demanded that the Election Commission of AJK take notice of the matter.
The PPP leaders reiterated their commitment to electoral activities, public issues and strengthening the party organisation ahead of upcoming elections.
