Bajwa, Faiz pulled legislative strings, alleges Asif

PML-N leader claims FATF steered into law due to ‘interference of military, intelligence agency’

ISLAMABAD:

PML-N leader Khawaja Asif claimed on Wednesday that former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa and ex-spymaster Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed wielded influence over legislative processes in the previous government of PTI.

Talking to the media after the PML-N’s parliamentary party meeting, Asif stressed the necessity of involving not only politicians but also other stakeholders for political stability.

“All elements must collaborate for stability,” he insisted.

The PML-N leader disclosed that Qamar Bajwa and Faiz Hameed played instrumental roles in shaping legislation related to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

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Asif admitted, “During that period, we used to consult them at their ‘messes’ for legislation.”

He said that the legislations were steered into law due to military interference and lamented that the nation continues to suffer the ongoing repercussions as a result.

“We are still grappling with the damages incurred during that time,” Asif lamented while highlighting the shared responsibility of all stakeholders to prioritise national interests and work collaboratively for the nation’s improvement.

Moreover, the former federal minister criticised President Dr Arif Alvi, alleging constitutional violations for failing to convene the inaugural session of the National Assembly within the constitutionally mandated deadline.

Asif went further, suggesting that President Alvi should face treason charges under Article 6.

Commenting on the May 9 riots, Asif urged accountability for those who challenged the state on that day, stressing the need for justice and responsibility in the face of such challenges.