Minister Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Prof Ahsan Iqbal refuted the claims made in a recent article for Time magazine, by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, highlighting significant improvements in the country’s economic indicators since Khan’s departure from office in April 2022.
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Writing from prison, Khan portrayed a bleak picture of Pakistan, suggesting that the nation is grappling with political instability and economic decline. He emphasized his own incarceration as evidence of a broader crackdown on dissent and democratic freedoms. Khan’s narrative suggests a country in turmoil, struggling under the weight of oppressive governance and financial mismanagement.
Contradicting Khan’s portrayal, Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal outlined several key economic achievements under the current administration:
– Inflation Reduction: Iqbal noted a significant decrease in inflation rates, from a staggering 38% during Khan’s tenure to below 4% in recent months.
– Policy Rate Adjustment: The policy rate has been lowered from 23% to 12%, aiming to stimulate economic activity and investment.
– Stock Market Performance: Pakistan’s stock market index experienced a remarkable surge, climbing from 42,000 points to an unprecedented 115,000, reflecting renewed investor confidence.
– Improved Credit Ratings: The nation’s international credit ratings have seen substantial upgrades, indicating a more stable and resilient economy.
Iqbal attributed these positive trends to responsible governance and sound economic policies implemented after Khan’s departure. He criticized Khan’s tenure for economic mismanagement, political instability, and frequent changes in financial leadership, with five finance ministers in just four years. Iqbal argued that such instability deterred investors and weakened Pakistan’s financial standing globally.
Beyond economic metrics, Iqbal addressed the political climate, showcasing how Khan is promoting a misleading narrative to undermine Pakistan’s progress. He urged the international community to recognize the country’s achievements and not be swayed by politically motivated accounts. Furthermore, Iqbal called on Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to consider new leadership, describing Khan as a “national criminal” and suggesting that his removal could pave the way for more constructive political discourse.
The contrasting perspectives of Imran Khan and Ahsan Iqbal underscore a deep political divide in Pakistan. While Khan highlights challenges and portrays a nation in distress, Iqbal presents a narrative of recovery and growth. As Pakistan continues to navigate its complex political and economic landscape, discerning the realities amidst self serving narratives remains crucial for both domestic and international stakeholders.
