Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Saad Rafique stated that Pakistan cannot move forward through “remote control democracy” and expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the country, emphasizing that this was the reason why it was not part of the government. .
He added that he will not remain silent when there are irregularities.
Addressing an event to mark the 52nd anniversary of the martyrdom of Khawaja Muhammad Rafique, Saad Rafique said: “Pakistan cannot progress through remote control democracy. This is not the way to move the country forward. The country is entangled in internal conflicts, and today the country is not on the right path.”
He further criticized the situation in Azad Kashmir, stating that groups are formed and the government gives in to them. “Why was someone appointed in Kashmir politics who has no connection with the region? We had warned against this, but no one listened.”
He added: “How long will we sit in the halls and complain? We have to talk. Who will talk? That’s why I’m not part of the government. My colleagues know it. I’m still part of my party.” But I can’t stay silent when something is bad.”
Saad Rafique also mentioned that the new US administration has no interest in Imran Khan and its attention remains focused on Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. “We don’t realize our power, but our enemies do. When you are surrounded, how can you remain silent? We have to find a way out,” he said.
He also revealed that he had discussed some issues with prominent figures, although he preferred not to name them, adding that the negotiations should be successful.
Renowned journalist Sohail Waraich agreed with Saad Rafique and stated that democracy and constitution are vital for the progress of Pakistan. “By following the constitution, democracy can advance. The constitution states that parliament can make laws, and we need to resolve crises through the constitution and parliament.”
He pointed out flaws within political parties, noting that while they have strengths, hatred between them poses a barrier to reconciliation. “Today, one party supports the army while another opposes it. The PML-N and the PPP have criticized each other, but they finally reconciled and things improved. The PTI is now in a similar situation.”
On the occasion, journalist Sohail Waraich explained in more detail how, in the past, powerful figures like General Pasha and General Faiz had tried to eliminate the PML-N and the PPP and bring a single party to power. “The media were closed, but no one supported each other. Reconciliation is necessary, but fundamental issues must be resolved, such as not undermining each other’s power and avoiding any unconstitutional action,” he emphasized.
Journalist Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami also commented that PML-N had proven itself, stating that he was in prison on the day Khawaja Rafique was martyred and witnessed the aftermath. “The murderers were attacked by the government itself. Khawaja Rafique did not seek personal gain but remained dedicated to the Pakistan Movement and fought against the dictatorship.”
He continued: “Khawaja Rafique’s name means sacrifice, not gain. To get out of crises, politicians must unite and stay away from non-political forces. If they continue to attack each other, democracy will never prosper. We have been advising those who They are in power, but they haven’t understood it yet.
He added that Pakistan is unique in the sense that the future of its government is always under scrutiny. “Political conflicts have weakened the country and the economy. The only way forward is for everyone to agree and end the practice of attacking Islamabad,” he said.
Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami concluded by saying that the political leaders who once participated in the protests are now retired. “In 2014, when the protests took place, we opposed them. The government should come and go through voting, otherwise we will remain trapped in the crisis. Bangladesh is suffering today and looks at us with admiration. We must respond to them with love.”
A month ago, Khawaja Saad Rafique refuted claims about the party’s resignation. Responding to widespread rumors on social media, Saad Rafique said reports of him leaving the PML-N or retiring from politics are “baseless”.
He categorically denied any truth in the circulating claims, affirming his continued commitment to the party.
