ISLAMABAD (Daily Point) — Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi raised concerns about a level playing field in Pakistan’s current political landscape ahead of the upcoming general elections, drawing parallels to the situation when Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) came to power in 2018, which his party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and others had labeled as “rigged.”
Speaking to reporters outside the accountability court in Islamabad, Abbasi discussed his association with PML-N and clarified that he has not been in contact with the party’s leader, Nawaz Sharif, emphasizing that such communication is unnecessary.
Abbasi reiterated his decision not to contest the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024, a stance he has consistently expressed. This decision is noteworthy, considering his resignation from the party office after Maryam Nawaz’s appointment as senior vice president and chief organizer.
Despite reports suggesting differences with the party leadership, Abbasi clarified that his resignation aimed to provide Maryam with a “clear field” and denied any discord within the party.
In an interview with a foreign channel, Abbasi explained his choice not to participate in the elections, stating that he wants to avoid potential issues that may arise after the election.
Referring to statements by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, and Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja regarding the elections, Abbasi expressed confidence that the polls would proceed as scheduled.
Abbasi appeared at the accountability court in connection with the liquefied natural gas (LNG) case against him, lamenting the prolonged legal proceedings and questioning the fairness of the graft cases. He highlighted his 14-year presence in the National Accountability Court without providing further details and expressed concern about the lack of compensation for perceived injustice in the country.
In his closing remarks, Abbasi questioned who would address the prevailing cruelty and injustice in the country today.
