PM Shehbaz Calls for Tough Decisions to End Dharna-Politics in Pakistan

In recent weeks, Pakistan has witnessed a surge in political unrest, primarily driven by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and its supporters. The situation escalated dramatically when law enforcement agencies intervened to disperse PTI protesters in Islamabad, leading to clashes and significant disruptions across the capital. In light of these events, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the urgent need for 'tough decisions' to eliminate what he termed 'dharna-politics'—a term used to describe the politics of agitation and sit-ins that have become a hallmark of PTI's strategy.

During a federal cabinet meeting, PM Shehbaz articulated a clear choice facing the nation: 'We have to decide whether we save Pakistan or allow sit-ins to take place.' His comments came after the PTI's much-publicized 'do-or-die' protest was postponed following a crackdown by law enforcement. The prime minister's remarks reflect a growing frustration with the ongoing political turmoil, which has not only disrupted daily life but also inflicted severe economic damage.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reported that normalcy has returned to Pakistan, with roads cleared and mobile services restored. However, the aftermath of the protests has left a significant mark on the economy. PM Shehbaz lamented that the stock exchange, which had previously soared past 99,000 points, plummeted by over 4,000 points due to the unrest. He estimated that the country is losing approximately Rs190 billion daily as a result of these protests.

Reflecting on past events, PM Shehbaz recalled the PTI's 2014 sit-in, which lasted 126 days and disrupted a crucial visit from the Chinese president. He expressed concern that similar chaos was brewing ahead of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, raising doubts among international guests about visiting Pakistan. The prime minister underscored the importance of stability and order, stating, 'We have two paths which we can take, and it is obvious that we have to take the path of development and prosperity.'

Furthermore, PM Shehbaz criticized the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government for its handling of rising terrorism in the region, particularly in Kurram, where recent clashes resulted in numerous casualties. He accused the provincial government of misusing resources to attack Islamabad instead of addressing local issues. 'This is not a movement but a sedition,' he declared, asserting that such actions must be curtailed to preserve the integrity of the nation.

The current political climate in Pakistan calls for decisive action and a collective effort to restore stability. As PM Shehbaz pointed out, the nation stands at a crossroads, and the choices made today will shape the future. It is imperative for all political factions to prioritize the country's welfare over personal or party agendas. Only through unity and a commitment to development can Pakistan hope to overcome the challenges it faces and pave the way for a prosperous future.