Pakistan’s former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has formally launched a new political party, Awaam Pakistan Party, with the ambitious mission of transforming the country’s political landscape. The party’s core message, encapsulated in the slogan ‘Badlien gaen nizam’ (we will change the system), reflects its commitment to addressing deep-rooted systemic issues and restoring the sanctity of Pakistan’s Constitution.
Abbasi, 65, who served as prime minister from August 2017 to May 2018, has distanced himself from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) due to policy disagreements. He believes the existing political system, encompassing governance, law enforcement, and revenue structures, has failed the Pakistani people. Addressing the launch event, Abbasi underscored the importance of decentralizing power to the district level and stressed that a country of 240 million people cannot function effectively without adhering to its constitution. He expressed deep concern that those entrusted with upholding the Constitution are consistently violating its principles.
The Awaam Pakistan Party’s ideology revolves around serving the people and encouraging active contribution rather than merely taking from the system. Abbasi emphasized that the party welcomes individuals who are committed to contributing to the nation’s progress. The party’s launch follows nationwide discussions under the banner ‘Reimagining Pakistan’ initiated by Abbasi in 2023, where he argued that only a new political force with a genuine commitment to change could pull the country out of its current crisis.
Abbasi acknowledged the public’s perception that political action is often influenced by powerful entities like the military establishment. He acknowledged the skepticism surrounding the party’s formation, with many questioning if it has received permission from these powerful entities. Abbasi lamented the state of politics, where serving the public has been overshadowed by the pursuit of power and positions. He described Awaam Pakistan as an unconventional party dedicated to genuine service and change.
Joining Abbasi in this endeavor is former finance minister Miftah Ismail, who similarly parted ways with the PML-N due to differences in political ideologies. Both Ismail and Abbasi served in previous cabinets, underscoring the desire for a new direction in Pakistani politics.
The announcement of the Awaam Pakistan Party was initially made last month through a video featuring citizens expressing their concerns about inflation, energy shortages, corruption, unemployment, and educational disparities. The formal launch on Saturday marks a significant step in the party’s journey to challenge the status quo and create a more equitable and prosperous future for Pakistan.
