Punjab Government Defends CM's Adherence to Election Rules
Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari has strongly defended Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's strict compliance with the election code of conduct, revealing that the CM has not inaugurated any development projects in Lahore or constituencies where by-elections are underway.
In a significant statement issued on Sunday, Bokhari emphasized that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has demonstrated complete respect for electoral rules by refraining from participating in the campaign of any PML-N candidate and avoiding project inaugurations in affected areas.
Countering Allegations from KPK Leadership
The information minister launched a strong rebuttal against Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, accusing him of leveling baseless allegations against the Punjab chief minister. According to Bokhari, Afridi's remarks are merely an attempt to divert attention from the Election Commission's notice issued to him and to cover up his own political embarrassment.
Azma Bokhari directly challenged Afridi's credibility, stating that he, much like his political leadership, continues to spread false information. She pointed to publicly available video evidence showing Afridi openly threatening government officers with dire consequences, including telling them they would "not see the next sunrise."
"Such statements clearly demonstrate that intimidation and bullying remain defining characteristics of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's political approach," Bokhari asserted during her response to Afridi's recent comments.
Development Beyond Electoral Considerations
The minister highlighted the significant development work underway across Punjab, emphasizing that more than 90 record-breaking development projects initiated under Maryam Nawaz's leadership have no connection to any by-election proceedings.
Bokhari noted the apparent contradiction in Afridi's position, pointing out that while the KPK chief minister personally runs election campaigns for candidates like Shehrnaz, he simultaneously issues unwarranted criticism against Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Maryam Nawaz's commitment to public service extends far beyond electoral considerations, Bokhari stressed, adding that the people of Punjab have shown their trust in Pakistan Muslim League-N's performance and independently choose its candidates based on their track record.
The minister's comprehensive statement comes amid heightened political activity surrounding the ongoing by-elections, with the Punjab government keen to demonstrate its strict adherence to electoral regulations and ethical political conduct.
