Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif bid farewell to the nation in his address on Sunday, as he concluded his 16-month tenure as the country’s chief executive.
He began his speech by announcing that he would be handing over the reins to a caretaker government. Sharif came into power in April last year after a no-confidence vote ousted PTI Chairman Imran Khan from office.
“Through constitutional means, we assumed power,” said Sharif, referring to the incident. He expressed satisfaction that his government had not misused the powers entrusted to it.
Congratulating the interim PM candidate, Anwaarul Haq Kakar from Balochistan Awami Party, Sharif said, “He hails from our province of Balochistan and I am confident that he will ensure free and fair elections in the country.”
The outgoing premier extended his gratitude to the nation and leaders of other parties for placing trust in him to carry out the responsibilities of the chief executive.
“We are thankful to God for granting us the ability and courage to navigate the country out of the worst economic, political, and foreign policy crises in history.
“History will bear witness that we saved the country from potential default and the resulting destruction,” he added.
Sharif highlighted the bailout loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund, which brought economic stability to the country towards the end of his government’s term.
The prime minister then proceeded to outline the achievements of his government and the measures taken to lead the country towards progress and financial independence.
“We treaded on a difficult path during the last 16 months. It became evident soon after we assumed power that Pakistan was facing extremely adverse circumstances. Even a day’s delay would have caused irreparable harm to the state.
“If we had held elections immediately [after taking office], we would have gained political advantage. However, the dire situation in the country did not permit us to capitalize politically.
“We prioritized Pakistan’s national interests over personal gains… We made tough choices, and time has proven that our decisions were right,” he added.
Sharif blamed the previous PTI government for inflation and stated that his government was compelled to make difficult decisions in order to save the country from default.
He emphasized the need to allocate resources to the impoverished and underprivileged, stating that it was time for the wealthy to make sacrifices.
“The poor have made enough sacrifices. Now it is the duty of the rich to contribute and make the country financially independent.”
Sharif expressed hope that businessmen and industrialists would shoulder the burden of the poor and work towards making the country economically self-reliant, as they had done in the past.
He maintained that if the government’s economic policies continued, there would be a significant decrease in inflation.
“The entire nation is now united in the pursuit of financial independence, just as it united in the fight against terrorism. We have established the Special Investment Facilitation Council to achieve financial independence. In the coming months and years, projects worth billions of dollars will be initiated under this initiative,” he added.
Sharif also praised the armed forces for their bravery and sacrifices in defending the country.
More updates to follow.