Bilawal sees Nawaz fighting with ‘selectors’ after becoming PM | The Express Tribune

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), diverged from his father’s recent comments about the potential formation of a ‘national unity government’ after the February 8 polls. Instead, he intensified his critique of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif during a workers’ convention in Lower Dir on Saturday, suggesting that the former prime minister is poised to confront those bringing him into power for the fourth time.

Addressing the gathering, Bilawal questioned the merit of Nawaz Sharif seeking another term as prime minister after three unsuccessful tenures. He accused the PML-N leader of aiming for a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly through ‘selectors’, a term often used to imply interference in the electoral process.

This marked the first time Bilawal acknowledged the possibility of Nawaz Sharif’s return to the premiership, albeit under the label of a “selection”, insinuating potential manipulation in the upcoming elections.

In contrast, Bilawal’s father, Asif Ali Zardari, previously hinted at a potential shift in political dynamics in favour of the PPP during an interview with a private news channel last month. Responding to claims by PML-N President for Punjab, Rana Sanaullah, Zardari suggested that a ‘national unity government’ could be formed, incorporating major political parties.

Read More: Zardari envisions ‘national unity govt’ post elections

In the same interview, Zardari remarked on Bilawal’s lack of political experience and the need for further training. This was in response to Bilawal’s recent addresses where he advocated for the inclusion of the younger generation in politics.

In today’s speech, Bilawal bemoaned the prevalence of old-fashioned animosity and division in Pakistani politics, asserting that personal vendettas now overshadow political differences. He highlighted the PPP’s commitment to serving the people without resorting to revenge, aiming to bury the politics of hatred.

Recounting Nawaz Sharif’s political journey, Bilawal reminded the audience that Sharif, initially “selected” in 1990, later clashed with those who facilitated his rise to power. He continued to elaborate on subsequent stints, emphasising a pattern of political confrontations leading to his ousting in 1999 and 2017.

Taking a dig at Nawaz Sharif’s current stance, Bilawal suggested that the former prime minister aimed to bring about a revolution from his Avenfield apartments in London. He accused Nawaz of seeking two-thirds majority from the same forces that facilitated his earlier ascension.

Read More: ‘Crying won’t lead us anywhere,’ Shehbaz tells Bilawal

Drawing parallels with PTI founder Imran Khan, Bilawal criticized both leaders for coming to power through ‘selection’. He specifically called out Khan for sidestepping democratic norms, resulting in legal troubles. Bilawal advised Nawaz to learn from Imran’s experiences, respect the power of the vote, and opt for a genuine election instead of seeking ‘selection.’

He cautioned that any attempt by Nawaz to secure a fourth term through ‘selection’ would face resistance from both Bilawal and the people.