PPP asks opposition to engage in dialogue to provide relief to people

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan People’s Party on Wednesday called upon the opposition to engage in political dialogue rather than confrontation, urging collaboration in parliament to navigate the country through its economic crisis and provide relief to the people.

“The opposition should prioritise parliamentary dialogue over street politics to safeguard democracy,” said the PPP secretary of information during a press conference alongside Nadeem Afzal Chan and MNA Fatehullah Khan.

Kundi emphasised that recent electoral outcomes indicated a public preference for parliamentary cooperation over confrontational politics.

“Let’s focus on parliamentary work for the welfare of the people, providing relief, and electoral reforms,” he said.

Regarding the appointment of the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Kundi reiterated that tradition dictates that this role goes to the opposition. “The speaker of the National Assembly holds the authority to decide on the appointment,” he clarified.

He highlighted the need for mutual understanding between the government and the opposition regarding chairmanships of standing committees, emphasising that any deadlock should be resolved by the speaker.

Commenting on recent byelections, Kundi noted differing opinions within the PTI but highlighted public confidence in the PMLN and PPP. Addressing the PTI’s varied responses to byelection results, he urged consistency, citing divergent views from party members. On the subject of Maulana Fazlur Rehman and the PDM, the PPP leader stressed the importance of parliamentary engagement over street protests.

Reflecting on the unopposed Senate elections in Balochistan, Kundi praised the absence of vote-buying.

Regarding the president’s joint session address, he stated no objections to its content but noted parliamentary disruptions. Regarding the recent visit of the Iranian president, Kundi emphasised Pakistan’s consistent stance on Palestine and Kashmir issues, highlighting signed MoUs between the two countries. Responding to a question about the PPP’s stance on court decisions, he emphasised the party’s respect for judicial rulings. Nadeem Afzal Chan underscored parliament’s role in addressing poverty and supporting farmers.

Kundi advocated for zero tolerance for terrorism and the implementation of the National Action Plan. In response to a query about contempt of court, he emphasised the need for similar accountability for those violating parliamentary sanctity, urging action from the speaker of the National Assembly.