Daily Times

RAWALPINDI: Hours after a shoe was hurled at Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif at a seminary in Lahore, Maryam Nawaz slammed those who ‘hate’ the former prime minister, claiming the episode was part of a ‘planning against the leader’.

Addressing the party’s social media convention in Rawalpindi, Maryam said the incident has only increased Nawaz’s popularity which is evident by the huge presence of people at the convention. “Nawaz Sharif’s enemies are cowards. Only those who have been defeated resort to such tactics,” she said. “Those who win never indulge in such cheap tactics,” she added.

“Those who pursued path of truth face difficulties. Your leader (Nawaz Sharif) has not stepped back from his path despite bullying, sit-in, conspiracies and threats. Foes’ puerile tactics have done nothing but increased popularity of the Nawaz Sharif,” former premier’s daughter asserted. Criticising Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan for promoting a culture of abusive language, Maryam said, “Do you think just one condemnation message [about the shoe-hurling incident] is enough. You taught abusive language to the nation. You talked about dragging rulers by their neck.” “Someone whose words and actions do not match does not deserve to be called a leader,” she said.

While commenting on the ongoing cases against Sharif family, Maryam taunted that corruption of even Rs 6 had not been proved against them.

The city’s Fawara Chowk vicinity was closed for traffic earlier owing to the event. Over 10,000 chairs were set for party workers at the venue, secured by 2,000 police officials. Political parties have increased their campaigning efforts for the fast approaching General Elections 2018.

Published in Daily Times, March 12^th 2018.