LAHORE: As the February 8 elections get closer, there is growing tension between the previously united Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari claims that his opponents in the election always try to avoid taking part in the polls.
The pre-election criticism from the former foreign minister took place during the PPP rally in Lahore, a stronghold of the PML-N. In a spirited speech, the PPP chairman indirectly criticized his former ally, emphasizing his determination not to let the Nawaz Sharif-led party evade the electoral process.
While the PPP is actively engaged in electioneering, the PML-N’s relatively subdued campaign strategy, marked by delayed ticket issuance, has raised concerns as the nation prepares for the general election.
Accusing the PML-N of a consistent pattern of avoiding elections, Bilawal heightened the competition for the upcoming polls, stating during the Wednesday rally, “We won’t allow Noon League to escape from elections. We are on the ground, but where is the PML-N?”
Expressing dissatisfaction with the PML-N’s efforts in their Lahore stronghold, Bilawal criticized the party for allegedly undermining the electoral process and not doing enough for effective campaigning.
In his critique, Bilawal also commented on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by Imran Khan, and their recent acquisition of the ‘bat’ electoral symbol after a court order. While acknowledging the PTI’s complaints about a lack of a level-playing field, Bilawal redirected his focus on his campaign strategy to secure victory.
Having dominated the government in Sindh for over a decade, the PPP is now striving to attain power in all four provinces, as well as at the national level, with the goal of making Bilawal the next prime minister. Confident in the PPP’s prospects, Bilawal, who was nominated as the party’s prime minister candidate, declared, “The ‘arrow’ will win, and I foresee the PPP’s victory. After our triumph, we will reshape the destiny of this city, province, and country.”
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
