PTI lawmakers expressed serious concerns over PM Imran Khan decisions

PTI lawmakers expressed serious concerns over PM Imran Khan decisions

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers expressed their grievances over inclusion of non-elected individuals in the federal cabinet terming it unacceptable.

According to well-placed sources, Prime Minister Imran Khan listened to the concerns of his fellows during a parliamentary party meeting ahead of National Assembly session on Wednesday.

The lawmakers told the prime minister that there was no visible role of public representatives in the policies of the government, adding that the inclusion of non-elected officials in the cabinet was “unacceptable”; they were apparently referring to appointment of Abdul Hafeez Sheikh as Advisor on Finance besides newly appointed FBR Chairman and SBP Governor.

The lawmakers told the premier that such a move exposed the government to the criticism of opposition.

After hearing concerns of members, Prime Minister Imran Khan was quoted as saying that he took responsibility for his decisions.

“[We] have to fix the economy. I take responsibility for my decisions. Your reservations are [justified] but some tough decisions have to be made,” the prime minister said.

On the issue of removal of former finance minister Asad Umar, the premier conceded that it was a difficult decision, however, hastened to add that Umar was still his right hand, Geo News reported.

The prime minister said that the new local bodies system would change the country’s destiny.

“Powers will be delegated to the grass-root level,” he said and wished to enlist the support of his party members.

Prime Minister Imran further instructed the lawmakers to ensure there was no shortcoming or negligence in the Ramzan Package.