ISLAMABAD: Former PML-N leaders Miftah Ismail and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi officially launched a new political party, Awaam Pakistan, on Saturday, declaring it “open for all” to join.
The new party aims to overhaul an outdated system they claim only benefits the elite. The leaders have long advocated for a new political entity to steer the country out of its enduring crises.
Miftah Ismail, who served twice as finance minister in the PML-N government, criticized the current government, likening it to the East India Company.
He highlighted the plight of the middle class, condemning recent tax hikes on salaried individuals and noting that 100 million people have been pushed below the poverty line.
He emphasized the need for “economic opportunity for all” and urged common people to engage in politics, as the existing system prevents their progress.
“The country cannot be managed under the current system; it has failed to protect the people,” said Ismail, who distanced himself from the PML-N leadership after Ishaq Dar replaced him as finance minister during the 16-month PDM administration.
Read More: Masoud Pezeshkian’s Victory: A New Era for Iran
“The current system cannot work. It has to be changed,” he asserted during the launch ceremony of Awaam Pakistan, the latest addition to Pakistan’s political landscape.
He called for the provision of health and education services as a state responsibility and criticized the latest budget, describing it as reflective of the rulers’ mindset, which he said was designed to trap the masses.
Branding the existing state system as dual-faced, Ismail promised that Awaam Pakistan would follow merit within its structure.
Last month, Awaam Pakistan made its debut on the political scene with a video posted on the party’s X account, shared with the tagline ‘Awaam Pakistan: Badlein ge nizam’ (People of Pakistan: We will change the system).
The video, featuring disillusioned citizens questioning various national issues, was reshared by both Ismail and Abbasi.
Read More: PTI Cancels Islamabad Jalsa After NOC Revocation
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Islamabad, Ismail stated that the party’s vision is to provide equal economic opportunities for all Pakistanis. He emphasized that Awaam Pakistan would reject “hereditary politics” and the concept of a “messiah.”
“If you believe that we have the right to move forward […] then join us, we will stand with you and rebuild Pakistan,” Ismail concluded.
