President Zardari criticizes Imran Khan, stresses agriculture, governance priorities

2026-02-17 - 09:06

VEHARI – President Asif Ali Zardari sharply criticized Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing a public ceremony in Vehari district, saying that Khan’s speeches have become frequent over the past one and a half years. President Zardari remarked that such incidents are part of politics, and if one cannot endure it, they should opt for an easier profession. Speaking about national development, the President highlighted the importance of supporting farmers and promoting modern agricultural practices. “Providing facilities to farmers is a national priority. The country can progress through improvements in the agricultural sector. Pakistan has abundant resources, but what it lacks is consistent planning and strategic thinking,” he said. Zardari added that agriculture is the only sustainable solution to Pakistan’s economic challenges. “National progress depends on empowering farmers and promoting modern farming techniques,” he said. On judicial reforms, the President stated, “I have tripled judges’ salaries. Every decision I make is carefully considered.” On national security and Kashmir, Zardari emphasized, “Kashmir is Pakistan’s lifeline. No compromise will be made on even an inch of its territory. Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto transformed Pakistan into a nuclear power while keeping regional threats in mind.” Discussing governance, he stressed the importance of political maturity and flexibility. “Political collaboration helps prevent unilateral tendencies. I understand the concerns of the people of Balochistan, but the country’s situation is better than before. Full improvement will take time. Our governance is currently limited to Sindh and Balochistan, while Punjab is under a different government, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has its own approach.” Criticizing the KP government, Zardari said it focused on power struggles rather than public welfare. Without naming Imran Khan directly, he added, “If the country halts for one year, it falls behind ten. The nation effectively stopped for four years. This person had a habit of giving daily speeches that dominated television coverage. Now, just one and a half years later, his voice continues.” Reflecting on his personal experience, Zardari said, “I spent 14 years in jail, and when I met my children, they had grown taller than me. Hardships are part of life. If you cannot bear them, choose an easier path. Politics involves every aspect of society; it is not easy, but it must be done.” He added, “You could have become Mother Teresa or a cricket legend, but politics requires dealing with every sector and taking responsibility for the nation’s challenges.”