Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shibli Faraz has condemned the current government's actions, stating that the country is facing unprecedented challenges, even worse than under martial law. Addressing the media after his appearance in the Anti-Terrorism Court, Faraz expressed his concerns about the political and economic situation, emphasizing that PTI would not be complicit in the controversial legislation being passed by the ruling administration. "This is a government that has made a mockery of the constitution," Faraz said. "Parliament has become a showpiece, and the laws being made are a result of individual decisions, not collective representation." He further criticized the government for using coercive tactics to pressure PTI by passing laws that align with its own interests. However, he reiterated that PTI would not be intimidated by such maneuvers.

Faraz also expressed alarm over the country's deteriorating economic conditions, stating that the government has failed to manage the growing deficit, which has now reached 390 billion rupees. "The shortfall keeps increasing, and the government is not able to meet its obligations. There's no business activity, people are leaving the country, and foreign investors are pulling out," Faraz observed. He highlighted the lack of stability, with both domestic and foreign businesses facing a hostile environment. The PTI leader’s remarks came as the government is reportedly preparing to introduce a mini-budget, which may include further hikes in import duties. "This is a self-made, incompetent government. They are not in control of anything," Faraz said, adding that PTI's struggle for the prosperity and development of Pakistan would continue.

In a related development, PTI leader Asad Qaiser dismissed claims that the success of former U.S. President Donald Trump had any bearing on the release of Imran Khan, PTI’s founder. Faraz, while speaking in Swabi, reiterated that the release of Imran Khan should be handled with dignity, and emphasized that PTI would not allow any external interference in Pakistan's domestic affairs. "We are fighting for the rule of law, and we want the mandate that was stolen from us to be returned," he said. Faraz's comments reflect the ongoing tensions between PTI and the ruling government, as well as the party's defiance against what it perceives as an unjust political environment. As the situation unfolds, PTI remains firm in its stance that the rule of law and democratic processes must prevail.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan