LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday called for the inclusion of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award funds.
“These funds are not a charitable handout but an essential right owed to the regions,” he said adding: “Prime Minister should ensure the equitable distribution of these funds, reinforcing the importance of addressing the financial needs of GB and AJK with urgency and fairness.”
Addressing PML-N leaders from AJK and GB in Lahore, Nawaz Sharif stressed the importance of merit in the distribution of election tickets, reiterating that merit should remain the cornerstone of the party’s decision-making process. He made it clear that any deviation from this principle would not be tolerated, adding the party’s parliamentary board will continue to prioritize merit in the allocation of tickets.
“Our party has always adhered to the principle of merit, whether in national or provincial elections. We have never compromised on merit and ill not do so now. Longstanding members who have proven their loyalty and commitment will be prioritized for tickets based on merit,” he said.
Despite acknowledging the federal government’s role in providing financial support to GB and AJK, the PML-N supremo raised concerns about the effective use of these funds.
“The NFC Award is meant to benefit the people, but it is equally important that these resources are used in a transparent and responsible manner. It’s not just about the money we send; it’s about how it is spent to improve the lives of the people,” he explained.
