LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has firmly stated that she has never ordered the arrest or release of any political rival, emphasizing that Imran Khan is facing the consequences of his actions.
Maryam Nawaz on Imran Khan’s Incarceration
Speaking at the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Programme cheque distribution ceremony, Maryam Nawaz remarked, “Imran Khan is paying the price for his misdeeds. It’s striking how time has turned, with him now confined to Adiala Jail in my province.”
However, she clarified that she never objected to any facilities provided to him, including air-conditioning and food of his choice.
Criticism of Past Political Practices
Without naming him directly, Maryam Nawaz criticized Imran Khan’s approach to politics, stating:
“This country can no longer afford politics rooted in burning state properties, laying siege, and mistreating law enforcement officers.”
She emphasized the need for development-focused governance to restore hope among Pakistan’s youth.
Punjab’s Development Under Maryam Nawaz
Maryam Nawaz highlighted several initiatives and economic reforms launched under her leadership, including:
- 700 road construction projects aimed at improving infrastructure.
- Asaan Karobar Programme, offering interest-free loans from Rs. 1 million to Rs. 30 million to promote entrepreneurship.
- A significant reduction in inflation from 38% to 4% since her government took office.
- Plans to allocate land in industrial zones to facilitate new businesses.
She also revealed upcoming initiatives for Ramazan:
- A free plot scheme for 3.3 million families with Rs. 10,000 financial assistance.
- A new laptop scheme to support students.
Maryam Nawaz on Economic Revival
The CM assured that her economic policies are yielding positive results, stating:
“Pakistan’s economy has strengthened over the past year, and people’s standard of living is gradually improving.”
She also directed the Bank of Punjab to expedite loan approvals to ensure a ‘Zero Time to Start’ policy for business owners.
Tourism Promotion in Punjab
On Global Tourism Resilience Day, Maryam Nawaz highlighted Punjab’s vast tourism potential, mentioning key projects such as:
- Islamabad-to-Murree Glass Train Project, a “game-changer” for tourism.
- Development of new tourist spots and upgrading infrastructure.
- Construction of a state-of-the-art hotel in Kartarpur to promote religious tourism.
Nawaz Sharif’s Vision for Pakistan’s Stability
Separately, PML-N President Nawaz Sharif criticized the previous government, blaming it for the economic downturn, inflation, and political instability. He emphasized that Pakistan has been saved from default under Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership.
He declared: “Our goal is to develop the country and make the people prosperous by shielding them from inflation.”
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1284011-maryam-says-never-ordered-arrest-of-any-political-rival
