Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivered a heartfelt farewell address to the nation, urging them not to let the “blackness and destruction” seen after former PM Nawaz Sharif’s tenure befall the country again. Shehbaz Sharif’s remark was a clear reference to the PTI, which took power after Nawaz Sharif’s term and saw a premature end with Imran Khan’s ouster from the PM’s office through a no-confidence vote last year.
In an appeal to the people to consider his party in the upcoming elections, PM Shehbaz emphasized, “We sacrificed our politics for the interests of Pakistan and its people. If we, as a nation, make the right decisions, we can overcome inflation and economic destruction soon.”
Initiating his speech, the outgoing premier announced the handing over of responsibility to a caretaker government after his 16-month tenure. Highlighting the constitutional means through which his party came to power, he expressed contentment that his government had not been dishonest in exercising its powers.
PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude to the nation and leaders of other parties for their confidence in his ability to lead the country. He further stated, “It is a favor of God that he gave us the capability and courage to steer the country out of the worst economic, political, and foreign policy crises in history. Time and records will testify that we saved the country from possible default and destruction.”
Regarding the bailout loan agreement reached with the International Monetary Fund, he credited it with bringing economic stability to the country. The prime minister then highlighted the achievements of his government, which he believed had put Pakistan on the path to progress and financial independence.
Despite facing a challenging situation upon coming to power, the PM explained, “We prioritized national interests over political gains and made difficult decisions. Time has proven that we made the right choices.” He blamed the previous PTI government for inflation and stated that his government had to make tough decisions to save the country from default.
Now, the focus must shift towards providing resources to the impoverished and poor. Shehbaz Sharif appealed for the rich to share the burden and contribute to the country’s financial independence. He expressed hope that businessmen and industrialists would step up, just as they had done in the past.
The prime minister emphasized the importance of financial independence, likening it to the unified narrative the nation had previously adopted to counter terrorism. To achieve this goal, he announced the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council, initiating projects worth billions of dollars in the coming months and years.
PM Shehbaz was confident that if his government’s economic policies continue, inflation will significantly reduce. He congratulated Anwaarul Haq Kakar, a Balochistan Awami Party Senator, for being chosen as the interim PM and expressed trust in his ability to ensure free and fair elections.
Lastly, the premier commended the armed forces for their sacrifices and bravery in protecting the country.
In this farewell address, PM Shehbaz Sharif aimed to convey his party’s commitment to the progress and prosperity of Pakistan, urging the nation to avoid the destructive outcomes of the past and make informed decisions for a brighter future.