PTI accuses govt of committing corruption, political victimisation

LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja castigated the current government, accusing it of widespread corruption, economic negligence, and systematic political victimisation.

While addressing a press conference here on Saturday, Raja highlighted severe administrative failures regarding basic commodities, fuel prices, and state expenditure, while reaffirming the party’s resolve to continue its struggle for public rights.

He expressed severe concern over the agricultural crisis, alleging that 4 to 4.5 million metric tons (and potentially up to 5 million metric tons) of wheat have vanished due to government negligence and collusion with hoarders. “These hoarders enjoy full state patronage while the direct burden falls on the poor,” he stated, noting that the current system has launched a direct assault on the public’s well-being and health.

Touching upon the fuel crisis, the PTI dismissed the government’s narrative surrounding petroleum pricing, saying it is untrue that domestic petrol prices are merely tracking international trends, pointing out that neighbouring countries in the region have kept prices stable. He criticised the failure to maintain national petroleum reserves, labelling it a prime example of bad governance. He also noted that Punjab provided Rs806 billion to the federation, funds originally meant for health and education, yet daily fuel hikes continue to burden citizens.

Raja highlighted the contrast in prison treatment between political leaders, stating that PTI founder Imran Khan remains confined to a small cell for speaking up for the public, unlike political leaders in the past who were granted regular visitation access. He shared that Khan was offered a transfer to his residence in Bani Gala but chose to remain in jail to maintain his stance alongside the people.

Reiterating the party’s upcoming plans, he emphasised the importance of PTI’s August 5 protest call, saying Imran Khan will have completed three years in jail by August 5; witnessing injustice around him makes the significance of this day greater. Thus, he urged citizens to peacefully take to the streets and raise slogans for freedom. “The protest would take place on August 5; if jail awaits us, we are prepared to face it. This fight will be taken to the streets,” he said, adding that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is expected to make a significant announcement on that day. He emphasised that if 10 million people participate, this system will be brought to an end; this nation will rise peacefully.

He announced that PTI will appeal the dismissal of the November 26 case, alleging witness tampering and pressure tactics, and promised to fight the political case on the streets. He reiterated that PTI leaders remain guardians of Imran Khan’s narrative and stand firmly with the nation in demanding democracy, transparency, and civil liberties.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026