Bilawal Bhutto, the chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), has made a commitment to appoint a chief minister from South Punjab should his party win the upcoming 2024 general elections.
During a rally in Multan, as the party gears up for the elections, Bilawal who will be contesting from Lahore NA-127, called upon the voters to help his party triumph to overcome the current “politics of hatred and division”.
Amidst soaring inflation and joblessness, the PPP chairman stated that his party is the only one with a solid plan to address these challenges. He criticized other political groups for being self-serving and ignoring the citizens’ needs in their election strategies.
Bilawal emphasized that he has personally designed the economic strategy for the PPP. He assured that, if given the mandate, his party would quickly act on these plans to lower inflation and boost employment opportunities.
In his speech, Bilawal also praised the efforts of the military and police forces in their fight against terrorism.
However, he pointed out that the increasing terrorism incidents are a result of societal divisions created by what he termed as “old politicians”. He called for an end to destructive political practices.
He mentioned that following the 18th Amendment, 17 federal ministries had become unnecessary and would be dissolved under PPP governance.
Bilawal explained that the funds saved, an estimated Rs300 billion, would be redirected towards public welfare initiatives including the issuance of kissan, mazdoor, and youth cards.
Furthermore, Bilawal announced his intention to cancel the Rs1,500 billion annual subsidies currently given to the wealthy. Instead, his strategy involves taxing the rich to alleviate financial pressure on the poorer segments of society.
He reminded the audience of the slogans of food, clothing, and housing advocated by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the founder of PPP, decades back, emphasizing that these basic needs are still in great demand.
Taking a veiled jab at PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif, Bilawal criticized the ambitions of certain politicians who aspire to become prime minister for the fourth time. He refuted the notion that the PML-N has the upcoming elections rigged in their favor.
Bilawal concluded with confidence, declaring his readiness to become the nation’s prime minister with the backing of the populace.
