ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday acknowledged that complete freedom from poverty and the high cost of electricity is not fully achievable, but assured that the government is working on a comprehensive plan with provincial collaboration to further reduce electricity costs for the poor.
Speaking at the Ulema and Mashaikh Conference, the Prime Minister emphasized that since coming to power, his government has been tirelessly working to lift the country out of its economic crisis. He expressed a desire for the current program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to be the last.
Shehbaz Sharif noted that the population has been burdened by inflation and high electricity costs for several years. To provide some relief, the federal government has cut Rs50 billion from the development budget, targeting assistance for those using up to 200 units of electricity. However, he admitted that this measure alone is insufficient, as those consuming up to 500 units are also heavily burdened.
The Prime Minister mentioned ongoing discussions with coalition partners and the President to develop a coordinated plan with provincial governments aimed at providing further relief in electricity prices for the poor, though he cautioned that full relief may not be possible. He hinted that there might soon be announcements from provincial governments in line with the federal efforts.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of creating employment opportunities and highlighted federal meetings on improving revenue collection by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and addressing issues in the power sector.
As Pakistan approaches its 77th Independence Day, the Prime Minister called for greater national unity, underscoring the need for institutional cooperation to tackle social and economic challenges. He reflected on the past 77 years, urging the country’s leadership to learn from history to pave the way for development.
Criticizing the role of social media in spreading misinformation, Shehbaz Sharif referenced the incidents of May 9 and 1971, urging Ulema and Mashaikh to help bridge societal divides and guide the nation towards progress.
