In a significant move with the February 8 polls looming, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif presented the party’s highly anticipated election manifesto in Lahore and asserted that it would be fully implemented if the party secured victory.
The focal point of the manifesto, according to Sharif, revolves around the country’s economy, describing it as the most crucial aspect. Despite past political challenges and his removal as prime minister in 2017, Sharif expressed gratitude that his party members were gearing up for elections and presenting their manifesto.
With an indirect reference to ex-premier Imran Khan, Sharif emphasized the stark differences in governance approaches. He articulated, “If I was there in the previous government instead of the person who you saw, I would have never done what he did.”
The PML-N’s promises, outlined in the manifesto shared on social media platform X, include “cheap and increased electricity,” speedy development, a reduction in power bills, increased electricity production, and substantial solar energy generation.
Catering to the youth, the manifesto pledges to ensure their representation in national politics, revive student unions, and support IT start-ups. Additionally, it aims to establish Pakistan’s first sports university, promote youth skills development, and initiate a Scholarship Endowment Fund.
On the foreign policy front, the PML-N vows to send a “message of peace” to other countries and addresses the situation in India-occupied Kashmir. Climate change, a “zero-tolerance policy” towards terrorism, and agendas like a “secured water future” and boosting the economy through exports are also part of the manifesto.
The PML-N’s comprehensive agenda extends to overseas Pakistanis, promising to rebuild Pakistan together. The manifesto covers various aspects, including constitutional reforms, legal and judicial reforms, administrative reforms, family planning programs, education reforms, digital development, transport integration, sports reforms, and the revitalization of tourism.
PML-N’s commitment to combating violence against minorities, modernizing agriculture, empowering women, and introducing a new labor policy is also highlighted in the manifesto.
The unveiling of the manifesto follows criticism from political rivals, especially PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto, who questioned the absence of PML-N’s agenda despite the impending general elections.
