Leaders of the National Dialogue Committee (NDC) on Wednesday declared the current government a complete failure in governance, economy, security, and public welfare. They demanded the immediate resignation of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his government, announcing that a “National Unity Government” should be formed until new elections are held.
Joint Press Conference at National Press Club
Former Sindh Governor Imran Ismail, former federal ministers Fawad Chaudhry and Muhammad Ali Durrani, former Information Advisor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, Mahmood Molvi, and other leaders addressed a joint press conference at the National Press Club. They stated that for Pakistan’s security, stability, and economic development, the departure of the current system is in the national interest.
Imran Ismail’s Remarks
Imran Ismail said that Pakistan is passing through a sensitive period of internal and external challenges. He stated that the Pakistan Armed Forces, under Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, have played a magnificent role in the war against India and for global peace. However, because of the current rulers, these achievements are creating an impression of failure due to internal problems and economic deterioration, which is not in the interest of the country, the nation, or its institutions. He added that while political differences have their place, acknowledging and taking pride in national achievements is a fundamental requirement of patriotism.
Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif’s Concerns
Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif said that the rulers have completely failed to utilize the recognition Pakistan has received globally for peace, stability, and development within the country. He expressed extreme concern over the increasing terrorism incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, stating that a comprehensive national strategy is inevitable for eliminating terrorism, promoting investment, and ensuring economic stability. He noted that political instability and declining public trust in leadership are making the country’s problems more complex.
Mahmood Molvi on Civic Issues
Mahmood Molvi said that major cities, including Karachi, are suffering from basic civic issues, and the public is not receiving necessary relief. He warned that if immediate attention is not paid to wheat and flour policy, the country could face a food crisis. He urged political parties to prioritize national interest, rise above differences, and make joint efforts to solve public issues.
Fawad Chaudhry Criticizes Budget
Fawad Chaudhry criticized the federal budget, saying the government has failed to bring economic stability. According to him, inflation, unemployment, and rising prices of essential commodities have increased public difficulties, while farmers, industrialists, traders, and the salaried class are under severe pressure. He stated that due to the current political divide, major national development projects are being affected, and the country requires broad national consensus for economic recovery.
Muhammad Ali Durrani’s Demand
Senior politician Muhammad Ali Durrani said that immediate and effective steps are inevitable to steer the country out of political, economic, and security crises. He demanded that the Prime Minister and President resign, the National Assembly be dissolved, and new general elections be held so the public can elect their representative leadership. He remarked that for the first time in history, the federal government presented a budget by cutting provincial funds, which is clear proof of economic ruin. He added that this situation is an alarm bell for national security, and the rulers are using budget cuts to pursue their own politics, defaming institutions, and dumping blame for their failures onto those institutions.
