‘Discuss matters in cabinet, and not in public rallies,’: Ahsan indirectly responds to Bilawal’s criticism 

Narowal: Amidst differences within the ruling coalition over the recently unveiled budget, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of discussing government decisions in cabinet meetings rather than criticizing them during political rallies. 

His statement comes in response to PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's criticism of the budget and concerns raised by the foreign minister regarding addressing those concerns in Swat. 

Bilawal expressed his discontent during a rally in Swat, highlighting unfulfilled promises related to allocating funds for the rehabilitation of flood-affected people. He further claimed that the budget lacked sufficient provisions for climate change issues and the rehabilitation of flood victims, with limited input from the PPP.

In a ceremony in Narowal, Minister Ahsan Iqbal indirectly addressed the foreign minister's comments and stressed the need for avoiding political uncertainty. He urged coalition partners to refrain from opening unnecessary fronts and instead discuss issues in official cabinet meetings.

Iqbal highlighted the importance given to coalition partners by the Prime Minister and emphasized that decisions were made through consultation and consensus.

Regarding the budget, Iqbal stated that all coalition partners were involved in its preparation and approval, indicating the government's commitment to decision-making through consensus. He also mentioned the government's efforts in providing relief to flood victims through the Benazir Income Support Programme and the National Disaster Management Authority.

The minister concluded by mentioning that the issue of flood victims in Sindh and Balochistan was raised in Geneva, leading to concerted efforts to expedite relief measures. The government aims to address the challenges and crises faced by Pakistan by acting as a united team and taking collective ownership of decisions.