KARACHI: Karamullah Waqasi, spokesperson for the Mayor of Karachi and parliamentary leader of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) in the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, has issued a critical response to recent statements by Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Ameer Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman. Waqasi accused Hafiz Naeem of attempting to mislead Karachi’s citizens for political gain through a false narrative, asserting that the electorate has consistently rejected Jamaat-e-Islami’s politics at the ballot box.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Waqasi emphasized that the PPP is the sole federal political party representing all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. He cited the party’s performance in the recent Gilgit-Baltistan elections as evidence of public confidence in PPP’s leadership, specifically in Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Waqasi also highlighted the party’s sacrifices for democracy, referencing the contributions of leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto, and noted that PPP members have faced imprisonment and persecution in their struggle for democratic values.

Waqasi criticized Jamaat-e-Islami for making ambitious electoral claims without securing widespread support, asserting that Karachi’s citizens recognize the difference between genuine public service and political rhetoric. He pointed to ongoing infrastructure development in Karachi as evidence of PPP’s commitment to governance and public welfare. Additionally, Waqasi praised Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s leadership on international platforms, suggesting that his growing popularity has led to baseless criticism from political opponents.

In addressing national issues, Waqasi urged political parties to focus on solutions to economic challenges rather than divisive politics. He reiterated PPP’s dedication to supporting workers, government employees, and underprivileged communities. Waqasi concluded by expressing confidence that the PPP’s track record of sacrifice and public service will continue to earn the trust of the Pakistani people, despite criticism from political adversaries.