Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic and untimely demise of journalist Nasrullah Gadani from Ghotki district. Gadani, who sustained serious injuries in an attack by unidentified gunmen a few days ago, succumbed to his wounds.
In a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP extended his heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the bereaved family of Nasrullah Gadani Shaheed, saying that he shares their grief and loss.
Chairman Bhutto Zardari expressed hope that the perpetrators of this heinous crime would soon be brought to justice.
Reaffirming the PPP’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, Chairman Bhutto Zardari highlighted that the Sindh Government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against journalists. He has instructed the Sindh Home and Information Ministers to enhance measures ensuring the safety and protection of journalists throughout the province.
A press conference was held today by the Peoples Labor Bureau Pakistan, led by Chaudhry Manzoor Ahemd, President of Peoples Unity PIA Employees, Hidayatullah, and other leaders, to oppose the proposed privatization of Pakistan International Airlines. During the conference, Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed and Hidayatullah delivered strong statements against the privatization efforts, raised critical concerns and urged the government to reconsider its approach.
Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed emphasized that it is premature to sell PIA, highlighting that the previous caretaker government hastily tried to sell PIA without consulting all stakeholders. He questioned whether the positions of opposing sides were adequately considered, “I don’t understand why there is such a rush. Why and to whom do you want to sell PIA? The nation deserves transparency about who the potential buyers are,” he stated.
Chaudhry Manzoor also raised concerns over the true motives behind the privatization efforts, suggesting that there is a clear interest in PIA’s valuable assets. He strongly believes that the motive behind privatization is to hand over PIA to their favorites and declared that they will strongly resist this move.
Hidayatullah added his voice to the opposition, stating that the attempt to privatize PIA is completely wrong and lacks legal authority. “PIA is not someone’s personal property; but a national asset. Privatization without proper legal backing and national consensus is unacceptable,” he asserted.
Both leaders highlighted the importance of keeping PIA under public ownership and management, noting that PIA was previously profitable and could be turned around with the right management and strategic reforms. They called for accountability and transparency in any decision-making process regarding the future of the airline.