Shahid Khaqan Abbasi: No Rift or Misunderstanding with Nawaz Sharif.
London Web Desk – Former Prime Minister and Chairman of the Awam Pakistan Party (APP), Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, has clarified that he has no grievances or misunderstandings with Nawaz Sharif. He emphasized that his departure from PML-N was based on principles.
Speaking at a press conference in London alongside APP Secretary General Miftah Ismail, Abbasi remarked that had Nawaz Sharif accepted his defeat in the February 8 elections, Pakistan’s political landscape would have been entirely different today.
Overseas Pakistanis Still Connected to Their Homeland
Abbasi praised overseas Pakistanis for maintaining strong ties with their homeland despite acquiring foreign citizenship. He highlighted their growing contribution to Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, emphasizing the need for policies that encourage investment instead of just real estate development.
“The confidence of overseas Pakistanis must be restored,” he stated. “If they invest in businesses rather than buildings, Pakistan’s economy will see greater benefits.”
Pakistan’s Real Opposition: Awam Pakistan Party
Abbasi asserted that APP is the true opposition in Pakistan, as it focuses more on solutions rather than problems. He stressed that without the rule of law, the country cannot progress, urging institutions to work within their constitutional limits.
Concerns Over Election Integrity and Governance
Lamenting election irregularities, Abbasi said, “It is unfortunate that elections are still being manipulated in Pakistan.” He insisted that the country must be governed according to the constitution, leaving no room for ambiguity.
He also expressed disappointment over the current government’s lack of public welfare initiatives, stating, “No significant policy has been introduced to benefit the people.”
Nawaz Sharif’s Political Shift
Abbasi revealed that his last meeting with Nawaz Sharif was in London, but they have not been in contact since. He pointed out that Sharif’s political peak was in 2021 during the Gujranwala rally, but he later deviated from his “Vote Ko Izzat Do” stance.
“We left PML-N on principled grounds. Nawaz Sharif had an opportunity on February 8, but he missed it,” Abbasi said.
Alliance Between PML-N and PPP: A Marriage of Convenience
Abbasi also criticized the unexpected alliance between PML-N and PPP, calling it a partnership of convenience rather than principles. He distanced himself from both Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif, claiming he has had no communication with them.
Crackdown on Freedoms and Internet Censorship
He condemned the government’s internet shutdowns, stating that a country that blocks access to information cannot progress. He also criticized laws restricting free speech, arguing that they are being used to suppress voices rather than protect public interest.
Final Thoughts
Abbasi’s statements underscore his dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s current political direction. He reaffirmed that his departure from PML-N was driven by principles, not personal conflicts. As he continues to position APP as a credible alternative, his remarks reflect the growing discontent among many political observers regarding governance, democracy, and economic policies in Pakistan.
