Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader Pervaiz Rasheed on Tuesday urged opposition parties to resume their parliamentary role and return to standing committees.
Speaking to media persons outside parliament, Rasheed said the opposition had distanced itself from parliamentary politics, adding that while he welcomed the peaceful political environment, opposition parties should actively participate inside parliament rather than on the streets.
“A strong and positive opposition is a sign of a strong democracy,” he said, adding that the government should not be given a “free hand” without accountability.
It is not good for us either if there is no one to correct or question the government. It is better if the opposition performs that role,” he added.
Commenting on the economic situation, Rasheed said every country faced its own economic challenges and requirements.
He noted that several countries had deployed police personnel to secure petrol pumps during difficult periods.
He credited the government with stabilising Pakistan’s supply chain situation and said inflation around the world had largely been driven by war and global instability.
“The root cause of inflation is the US-Iran war, and it is encouraging that the government has worked for peace and an end to conflict,” he said.
Speaking about coalition politics, the PML-N senator said the Pakistan Peoples Party remained an ally of the ruling coalition.
He also commented on jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, saying the PTI founder was being provided complete medical facilities in prison and appeared satisfied with his treatment.
“If there had been an issue, he would have tweeted from jail,” Rasheed remarked.
He said the heavy security outside Adiala Jail was meant to protect prisoners.
He also criticised Sohail Afridi, saying the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister should focus more on his province.
