Iqbal blames state institutions for political crises, calls for economic focus

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said on Thursday that Pakistan’s political crises were engineered by various pillars of the state. He urged all sides to unite for the country’s economic strength.

Speaking at an event commemorating Youm-e-Takbeer—the anniversary of Pakistan’s nuclear tests—at the Islamabad High Court Bar Association, Iqbal stressed that the judiciary should not be used for political battles.

He said crises were at times caused by the establishment and sometimes by the judiciary, citing the 26th Constitutional Amendment as a result of political use of the courts. He noted that the 2017 disqualification of Nawaz Sharif triggered a political crisis but claimed the establishment now wants to avoid political involvement.

Iqbal praised the 1998 nuclear blasts as a strong response to India’s tests, crediting late Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan for the programme’s foundation. He acknowledged Nawaz Sharif’s role in resisting international pressure to proceed with the tests.

He said Youm-e-Takbeer is both a celebration and a pledge for Pakistan’s future resolve.

Reflecting on recent India-Pakistan military tensions, Iqbal highlighted the Pakistan Air Force’s success in downing six Indian jets, including three Rafales, noting India’s request for a ceasefire after the setback.

Iqbal stressed that a strong economy is essential for national defense and called for tackling tax evasion, noting Pakistan’s low tax collection rates.