Azma slams PPP leaders for ‘politicizing’ plight of flood victims
LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari, has strongly reacted to the press conference of PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira, stating that PPP leaders are competing to hold press conferences against the Punjab government while claiming they are not politicizing the plight of flood victims.
She said that before targeting the daughter of Punjab while living in Punjab, PPP leaders should recall their own past. “The same party that was once led by a woman is now collectively holding press conferences against a woman leader,” Azma remarked.
Azma Bokhari said that the PML-N takes pride in its popularity and public service, and PPP should focus on building its own support instead of such rhetoric. “Such statements make no difference, and PPP cannot stand on its own feet this way,” she added.
She stressed that this is not mere political difference but a deliberate attempt to target Punjab collectively. She highlighted that the chief minister, his cabinet, and provincial institutions have been standing with flood victims since day one. “To politicize such a serious issue does not befit an experienced politician like Qamar Zaman Kaira,” she noted.
Azma Bokhari said that personal attacks will naturally invite a response. “You may use BISP in Sindh, we have no objection. But while Sindh is giving Rs 10,000 to victims, Maryam Nawaz is providing Rs 1 million per victim in Punjab, which is their actual need,” she stated.
She clarified that Punjab’s treasury and resources belong to the people of Punjab, and no external advice is required on how to utilise them. She pointed out that Punjab government has built 20,000 kilometers of roads from its own funds, and more than 90 development projects initiated by Maryam Nawaz are being completed from provincial resources without a single rupee from the federation.
Azma Bokhari concluded by saying that this reality should bring pride to every Punjabi, not disappointment.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025