Daily Times

In a bold declaration, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announced on Monday his party’s commitment to abolish 17 federal ministries, redirecting funds to benefit taxpayers by a substantial Rs 300bn. Speaking at Bakhtawar Cadet College for Girls, Bilawal emphasized that these ministries should have devolved to provinces after the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

The PPP chief highlighted that the government’s Rs 1,500bn subsidy to the “elites” in sectors like energy and fertilizer would cease under their administration. Instead, the funds would be redirected to support labourers and farmers through cards, addressing pressing issues related to the economy and climate change.

In a nod to the youth as the country’s future, Bilawal called for an end to old-style politics, advocating for unity and cooperation to tackle challenges. He pledged to provide overseas employment opportunities for Pakistani youth, citing his past efforts as foreign minister.

Bilawal drew attention to the growing economic challenges, noting that the cost of living has doubled in a decade, necessitating a Rs70,000 monthly salary for families. He urged the incoming government to shoulder the responsibility of doubling salaries within five years to match inflation.

The PPP chairman outlined specific cards, including the Haari Card for farmers, the Mazdoor Card for labourers, and the Nojawan Card for youth. The Haari Card, he explained, would replace subsidies for mill owners with direct support for farmers. Additionally, the Youth Card would provide financial aid to job-seeking young individuals.

In a separate event, Bilawal asserted that the revolution in Sindh would extend to all parts of the country. He criticized the redundant federal ministries, promising their dissolution to free up funds. The PPP chairman also pledged to provide 300 units of free electricity to the people through investments in green energy.

Further underscoring the party’s commitment to progress, Bilawal emphasized the importance of women’s participation in all sectors, stating that without it, progress remains incomplete. Speaking at the passing-out parade of Bakhtawar Cadet College for Girls, he applauded the role of women in the construction and development of Pakistan.

Bilawal highlighted the PPP’s pro-poor manifesto, focusing on addressing economic crises, floods, weather changes, and population issues. He emphasized the party’s commitment to providing labour cards to farmers, labourers, and working women, along with support for education and job opportunities for the youth.

Bilawal called on the public to reject the politics of hatred and division, and to support the PPP. He acknowledged Pakistan’s serious economic crisis, marked by historic inflation, unemployment, and
poverty.