Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari initiated his party’s campaign for the February 8 elections, revealing a comprehensive 10-point agenda primarily focusing on welfare initiatives.
At a gathering in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, commemorating the 16th death anniversary of his mother, Benazir Bhutto, Bilawal laid out the party’s vision for the upcoming polls. He pledged significant policy reforms aimed at enhancing the welfare of the populace.
In his address, Bilawal subtly criticized his political adversaries, particularly the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), hinting at their reliance on external support for electoral success. Vowing to challenge his opponents directly, Bilawal expressed his determination to contest from Lahore, a symbolic gesture challenging the stronghold of his political rivals, including PML-N’s leader Nawaz Sharif. He questioned Lahore’s political fate and hinted at changing the narrative by contesting the longtime political dominance in the region.
A 10-Point Agenda for People’s Welfare
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari promised a transformative 10-point agenda that aims to improve the living standards of Pakistanis significantly.
Key pledges include doubling salaries within five years, providing free solar energy to the poor, ensuring education and health for all, housing initiatives for flood-affected individuals, and expanding the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).
Additionally, he proposed new welfare schemes, including BSIP-like programs for farmers, the Benazir Mazdoor Card for labourers, the Youth Card for unemployed youth, and the ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’ to eradicate hunger.
Through these initiatives, Bilawal aims to set a distinct path from his former allies in the PDM government and establish a unique identity for the PPP in the forthcoming elections.