Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has stepped in to end the war of words between ruling PPP and opposition PML-N over the alleged smear campaign against ex—premier Nawaz Sharif, saying the heated exchange of charges on the issue could have serious consequences for democracy.
Mr. Gilani, currently on an official visit to Libya, telephoned PML-N President and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif to “express his serious concern over the exchange of accusations between some of the leaders of PML-N and PPP.”
“We should join hands to foil attempts to destabilise the political environment for the sake of democracy,” Mr. Gilani said during the phone conversation late last night. Democratic forces also should not “fall prey to the conspiracy” of elements intending to derail the existing system, he added.
Mr. Gilani said leaders of both parties should refrain from making “provocative statements,” according to a statement issued by his media office. He also welcomed PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif’s call for the two parties to stop the vilification campaign against each other.
Over the past few days, Pakistan’s two main political parties have traded angry charges over PPP chief and President Asif Ali Zardari being allegedly involved in a smear campaign against PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif.
Keywords: Gilani, Nawaz Sharif, PML-N, PPP, Pakistan
