Former federal minister Asad Umar on Friday expressed deep concern over the country’s worsening economic situation, rising political tensions, and deteriorating law and order, saying the current government is disconnected from public issues while major decisions are being made based on power-sharing within influential institutions.
Speaking to the media during his appearance at the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC), Umar said that the amendments issued by the President under Article 243 of the Constitution and Section 8A of the Army Act have nothing to do with the public, calling them changes related solely to power dynamics.
He said the internal situation of the country has become extremely alarming, the economy has collapsed, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has effectively shown mistrust in his own economic team by announcing the formation of new economic committees after three and a half years.
The former minister claimed that Pakistan’s foreign relations have improved, citing what he described as a “humiliating defeat” for India in May and a U.S. Congress report that supported Pakistan’s stance, but said the internal situation continues to worsen.
According to him, terrorist incidents have resurged after 15 years, and political tensions have escalated to the point where threats of imposing governor’s rule in a province are being issued.
He emphasised that all political parties must come together on one page, otherwise improvement is unlikely. He insisted that the candidate who receives the most votes should be declared the winner to ensure political stability.
Speaking about heavy taxes on petrol and diesel, Umar said that the current government has collected over one trillion rupees in taxes during its first nine months. “Motorcyclists are being burdened with taxes — who will enforce the law on the rest?” he asked.
Extension of bail for Asad Umar and Azam Swati in May 9 cases
Earlier, the Anti-Terrorism Court heard the interim bail petitions of PTI leaders Asad Umar and Azam Khan Swati in cases related to the May 9 Jinnah House attack, Askari Tower attack, and the burning of Shadman police station. The court extended their interim bail until January 16.
PTI leader Azam Khan Swati and former federal minister Asad Umar appeared in court for attendance, with the proceedings conducted by ATC Judge Manzar Ali Gul.
The court has summoned arguments on the next hearing regarding their bail petitions.
Asad Umar has filed for interim bail in cases pertaining to the Jinnah House attack, Askari Tower attack, and the burning of Shadman police station, while Azam Swati has submitted bail applications in the Jinnah House, Askari Tower, and other related cases. The PTI leaders also face allegations of sedition and inciting workers to engage in arson and violence.
