Bilawal blasts PML-N for neglecting provinces, slow internet

LARKANA: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Saturday underscored the importance of addressing the issues facing Pakistan’s provinces, lamenting what he described as a persistent disregard by the federal government for smaller regions. 

Talking to media at Rato Dero, Larkana, Bilawal reiterated PPP’s commitment to “serving the people despite challenges”. “Our focus has always been on solving public issues, even when resources are limited.”

Criticizing the federal government’s approach toward provinces, he said that “whether we are in government or opposition, the attitude of the center toward smaller provinces remains the same.”

He further claimed that agreements made between the PPP and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) during coalition discussions have not been fully honoured, particularly concerning development projects and financial commitments for Sindh and Balochistan. 

He criticized what he termed a “unilateral approach by the federal government”, saying, “They [PML-N] act as though they have a two-thirds majority, bypassing other stakeholders. But the ground realities differ.”

He warned PML-N that “contentious decisions”, such as violations of the 1991 Indus River System Authority agreement, would only deepen divisions. 

Bilawal also expressed disappointment at the lack of proper execution of political promises made by the PML-N. “The federal government must work with all provinces to ensure their rights are upheld. There’s much room for improvement.”

He urged the center to engage in meaningful dialogue with provinces and the PPP to address grievances. “Our complaints must be taken seriously. Through genuine discussions, we can resolve provincial objections and ensure promises are fulfilled.” 

Calling for inclusive policymaking, Bilawal said, “Successful projects are those made through dialogue and consensus. One-sided decisions have a history of failure — just look at the example of the Kalabagh Dam.” 

He also blasted the PML-N government for the slow internet speed, wondering why shark only cuts Pakistan’s internet cable. He pointed out that PML-N is focused on building roads and motorways while “the infrastructure our generation needs is digitalisation, and fast internet”.

The PPP chairman also highlighted his party’s efforts in tackling challenges independently, noting that the party had championed public-private partnerships to address gaps left by federal neglect. 

However, he praised the improving economic conditions, and welcomed declining inflation. He emphasized that such progress must translate into tangible benefits for the public. “If economic improvements are real, they must be felt by the people. Our party will continue pushing for this.”

It may be noted here that Bilawal has been castigating PML-N government since they came into power in Feb 2024.

Yesterday (Friday), he expressed disappointment with the PML-N government, accusing it of failing to uphold agreements made with PPP regarding flood rehabilitation and developmental priorities.

“Despite supporting the government in the parliament, our members return to their constituencies empty-handed,” he complained.

“This is not how governments function”, he added, and called for decisions based on consensus in the parliament, warning that unilateral actions would not resolve Pakistan’s issues.

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