Former President Dr Arif Alvi has emphasized that negotiations should be direct with the primary stakeholders, particularly in light of a favourable ruling in the cipher case.
During a luncheon hosted by Pir Syed Habib Irfani Chishti in Model Town, Lahore, Dr. Arif Alvi articulated his dissatisfaction with the government’s sustained attention on the ongoing cipher case. He also voiced his concerns regarding the enduring accountability issues that continue to challenge governance in Pakistan.
Dr. Alvi welcomed the recent decision on the cipher case, stating that it is the prerogative of the Prime Minister, rather than lower-level officials, to determine the disclosure of sensitive information to the public. He expressed disillusionment with the accountability mechanisms in the country, attributing much of the ineffectiveness to the interference of elite groups.
Highlighting the ongoing public discussions, Dr. Alvi criticized the superficial nature of media-driven negotiations over the past two years and stressed the importance of engaging directly with the main parties involved.
Dr. Alvi also denounced the previous exoneration of Jehangir Tareen as a mistake and spoke about the significant financial repercussions Pakistan has faced due to frequent leadership changes. Concluding his address, Dr. Alvi pointed out the deep loyalty of the Pakistani people to their leaders, which, he argued, reflects the potential for substantial support that leaders can mobilize in the country.
