Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Friday suggested de-politicising the police and administration of the city, carrying out a ruthless operation against targeted killers and extortion mafia, and giving more resources to the city to restore peace in “mini Pakistan”.
Speaking at the Karachi Press Club’s Meet the Press programme, Shahbaz said that his party would not support any unconstitutional step. “We left everything in India and came to Pakistan with a dream. Left our properties behind so we could live with respect and in harmony, but all hopes have been dashed. After 64 years, our ancestors are turning in their graves because their dream did not come true,” he said.
The Punjab CM said conditions were difficult but not impossible. “Nations cannot develop through donations. I don’t agree with the conditions of international donors. Punjab is carrying on without conditional aid, the federal government should also follow the example,” he said, adding that China was the best example of a country that developed by an economic fight with world powers.
“I am happy with the relationship between Lahore and Lyari, Hazara and Hyderabad, Gujranwala and Gwadar. Their lifeline is the same.” Shahbaz said rented killers should be eliminated from Karachi, adding that if Karachi defaulted, Pakistan would too. Asked why his party was not active in Sindh, especially in Karachi, Shahbaz said the situation in the city was not allowing “peaceful political organisations” to continue their work there. However, he said it did not mean that the PML-N would not work in the city.
“Organisational setup is in process,” he said. To another query, the PML-N leader said his party would support action in accordance with the constitution. “The PML-N will support action according to 245/A. We will condemn any unconstitutional action.” He said the issue of formation of new provinces had been raised to hide corruption, adding that his party would support the creation of new provinces on an administrative basis.
Shahbaz also opposed any judicial martial law, adding that everything should be done in accordance with the constitution. Asked to comment on the Punjab governor, he declined. To a question regarding the blocking of a private TV channel in Lahore, Shahbaz became annoyed and left without giving any concluding remarks.