SIALKOT: Nawaz Sharif, the leader of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N), declared on Sunday his willingness to confront the same challenges as the nation but expressed his intolerance for cruelty towards the people.
Speaking at a public gathering in Sialkot, the three-time former prime minister criticized the PTI government for the significant rise in petrol prices and soaring inflation, comparing the current situation to his previous term in power when these issues were purportedly absent.
Nawaz lamented the surge in sugar prices, citing an increase from Rs50 to Rs150 per kilogram.
He urged the public to discern the truth about those responsible for the country’s current circumstances, particularly inflation. Nawaz highlighted the financial strain on the common man and pledged, reminiscent of his earlier tenure, to control inflation and enhance affordability.
A day prior, the PML-N unveiled an economic manifesto, cautiously optimistic and seeking to balance people’s expectations with the harsh economic realities. The manifesto aligns with some achievable goals outlined by the International Monetary Fund in its recent staff report, but it remains silent on matters concerning a new IMF bailout package and the handling of escalating public debt.
While the budget and current account deficit goals suggest a potential IMF program if the PML-N assumes power, the party reneged on its promise to provide free electricity to consumers using up to 200 units monthly.
Contrary to aspirations of making Pakistan an Asian Tiger, the PML-N adopts a conservative approach toward gradual income level increases, targeting a per capita income of $2,000 by 2029.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
