Maryam says never ordered arrest of any political rival

Maryam Nawaz Denies Involvement in Political Arrests, Highlights Punjab's Progress

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz affirmed on Monday that she had never ordered the arrest or release of any political opponent.

Speaking at a cheque distribution ceremony for the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Programme, she remarked, “Imran Khan is facing the consequences of his actions. It’s remarkable how circumstances have changed—he is now imprisoned in Adiala Jail, within my province.” However, she clarified that she had no objections to him receiving an air-conditioner, meals of his choice, or any other jail amenities.

Without naming him directly, Maryam Nawaz criticized Imran Khan’s political approach, stating, “It is easy to hurl accusations and insults, but Pakistan can no longer afford politics based on vandalism, sieges, and assaults on law enforcement.” She also warned that if the country did not prioritize development, its youth might lose hope. “My opponents are struggling to accept Punjab’s progress,” she added.

Maryam Nawaz reiterated her commitment to public service, saying, “I have embraced public service as a mission and a challenge. I sincerely thank my party’s leadership for entrusting me with this responsibility.”

During the event, she announced the distribution of Asaan Karobar finance cheques and business cards while criticizing the previous government for causing 38% inflation and discouraging foreign investment.

In a pointed remark aimed at Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, she emphasized her government’s development efforts: “We are constructing 700 roads across Punjab, yet some claim infrastructure doesn’t lead to progress. If building roads isn’t development, is arson and vandalism?” She asserted that Pakistan’s youth now understood who had harmed their future.

Highlighting the Asaan Karobar Programme, she explained that the government was providing interest-free loans ranging from Rs1 million to Rs30 million to support new businesses. “These loans are granted purely on merit—favoritism will not be tolerated,” she assured.

Acknowledging the challenges of job creation, she pointed to economic improvements: “Pakistan’s economy has strengthened over the past year, and people’s living standards are gradually improving. Inflation has dropped from 38% to 4% since we took office.” She added that as businesses flourish through government initiatives, employment opportunities will increase.

She revealed that the Punjab government had received 185,000 applications for the Asaan Karobar loans and instructed the Bank of Punjab to expedite approvals under a ‘Zero Time to Start’ policy. She also announced plans to allocate land in industrial zones for programme beneficiaries and streamline business licensing.

Outlining future initiatives, she declared, “During Ramazan, we will launch a free plot scheme benefiting 3.3 million families, with Rs10,000 delivered to their doorsteps. After Ramazan, we will introduce a laptop scheme. If Pakistan doesn’t progress now, the youth will lose all hope.”

She emphasized the importance of interest-free loans, stating that while Pakistan’s economy had stagnated for seven years, it was now on the path to recovery. “The PMLN government has always honored its commitments, and economic growth remains our signature achievement.”

Maryam Nawaz also praised the transparency of the Asaan Karobar scheme, stressing that loans were being distributed without political bias, solely based on merit. “This programme is fostering employment and supporting small businesses,” she said.

Focus on Tourism Development

Separately, on Global Tourism Resilience Day, Maryam Nawaz highlighted Punjab’s immense tourism potential, emphasizing its diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, lakes, and rivers.

“Tourism strengthens the economy, preserves local culture, and fosters international relations,” she noted, unveiling initiatives such as the Islamabad-to-Murree Glass Train Project, which she termed a “game changer.” She also mentioned a comprehensive master plan aimed at transforming Murree into a world-class tourist destination.

She further elaborated on Punjab’s efforts to expand tourist destinations and upgrade infrastructure for safer, more comfortable travel. She emphasized the promotion of religious tourism, revealing plans for a state-of-the-art hotel in Kartarpur as part of the government’s development strategy.

Nawaz Sharif on Political Stability & Economic Revival

Meanwhile, PMLN President Nawaz Sharif addressed Punjab Assembly members from Sahiwal, Khanewal, Multan, Lodhran, Vehari, and Bahawalnagar, lamenting the country’s political and economic instability.

He attributed Pakistan’s derailment to the rise of “polluted politics” driven by hostility, revenge, and chaos. “The economy and national values were shattered, and democracy was betrayed. However, Shehbaz Sharif has pulled Pakistan back from the brink of default. His dedication is restoring economic stability.”

He criticized the previous government, stating, “Corruption, economic collapse, inflation, and misconduct were their legacies. We had bid farewell to the IMF, but now, our goal is to develop Pakistan and shield its people from inflation.”

Punjab Assembly members reaffirmed their confidence in Nawaz and Shehbaz Sharif, calling them symbols of dedication and integrity. They also praised Maryam Nawaz, describing her tenure as Punjab’s first female chief minister as a revival of the PMLN’s legacy.

They highlighted her growing popularity, noting increasing public demand for her governance in other provinces as well.

The meeting was attended by senior PMLN leaders, including Senator Pervez Rashid, Rana Sanaullah, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, and Rashid Nasrullah.