Sheikh Rasheed seeks amnesty from establishment

RAWALPINDI: Former interior minister and Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rasheed on Monday appealed to the establishment for amnesty, expressing concerns over the country’s economic woes and rising electricity rates.

Speaking to media outside Adiala jail, Rasheed criticised the current state of governance and the increasing economic challenges facing Pakistan. “The situation is dire, and the economy is struggling. Electricity rates are set to rise, and corruption is rampant. The poor are already suffering,” he said.

Rasheed urged the establishment to consider his appeal for amnesty, noting his tenure as a minister during which he granted amnesty. “There are 686 cases against me. If cross-examinations are conducted weekly, it will take 10 years to adjudicate,” he stated.

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He also condemned the arrest of Sanam Javed from a lawyer’s chamber, calling for urgent action to save the country. “Punish us if you must, but save the country. It is becoming like Kenya. The situation in KP and Balochistan is alarming. For God’s sake, save your honor and country,” Rasheed pleaded.

Rasheed criticized former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, predicting further public humiliation and economic decline under their leadership. “Nawaz will bring a new narrative that will leave people humiliated. Nawaz and Shehbaz will face their own reckoning,” he said.

He highlighted the public’s frustration, noting that 7.7 million people have submitted their passports to leave the country due to worsening conditions.

Rasheed also questioned the leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), expressing doubts about the party’s future. He praised the judiciary for its recent decision on reserved seats and expressed hope that it would play a crucial role in saving the country.