LAHORE: PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz departed for Gujranwala, the venue for the PDM rally, saying she was doing so “as a foot soldier” of ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif.
“I embark on this mission as your foot soldier, Nawaz Sharif. I have dedicated myself to your struggle, your mission for Pakistan and its people,” Maryam tweeted as she left her Jati Umra residence in Lahore for Gujranwala’s Jinnah Stadium.
The recently-formed Pakistan Democratic Movement has announced to hold a series of protest rallies in major cities in the next couple of months to oust the “selected” government of Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Maryam hoped that she returns “triumphant and victorious”. Before her departure, she also held a special prayer.
Speaking to supporters outside her residence, Maryam said that they were coming out on the streets today for the rights of 220 million people, and appealed to the people to join her caravan.
“Police and administration should get out of the way. We are fighting not only for the people but also for your rights,” she said. She added that the police and administration have taken an oath to abide by the Constitution and law, “not to protect a fake ruler”.
Meanwhile, PDM chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, addressing a press conference before his departure from Lahore, said that his caravan will meet Maryam Nawaz’s caravan at some point and they will enter Gujranawala together.
Talking to reporters, Fazl said that all Opposition parties were “committed” and there “should be no perception that some political force is looking for any reconciliation or thinking of it”.
Lashing out at PM Imran Khan, the PDM chief said that the “situation has changed” with regards to the NRO, claiming that it was the premier who was now seeking an NRO from them.
“We are out to remove an unelected parliament,” said the PDM chief, adding that general elections should be held now.
According to details, PDM chief Maulana Fazl will lead the JUI-F caravan from Lahore’s Jamia Ashrafia to Gujranwala while the workers and supporters of the party have been directed to reach the rally venue directly.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, addressing a press conference in Lala Musa, said his party has made a lot of sacrifices for democracy.
Bilawal complained that his party workers were being harassed by the authorities, reminding PM Imran Khan that he had promised to let political rallies be held in his first speech.
“You said in the first speech that you will give us container and food. But [you have] kept containers on our way. Imran Khan you cannot prison peoples’ ambitions,” said Bilawal.
He also invited every Pakistani to become part of the PDM and end the ‘joke” that is going on in Pakistan for the last 70 years.
