Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi officially launched his new political party, the Awaam Pakistan Party, on Saturday, articulating a vision to transform Pakistan’s governance and restore respect for the nation’s Constitution. The party’s rallying slogan, “Badlien gaen nizam” (we will change the system), emphasizes an inclusive approach, inviting all citizens who wish to contribute to the country’s development.
Abbasi, who served as prime minister from August 2017 to May 2018, took this step after distancing himself from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) due to ideological differences. His departure from the party was marked by a refusal to align with the government in 2022, signaling his growing discontent with the current political climate. A businessman by trade, Abbasi’s family owns the AirBlue airline, and he has a long-standing history in politics, having been elected to the National Assembly multiple times since 1988.
At the launch event, held in a vibrant atmosphere filled with supporters, Abbasi expressed his dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s current governance systems, including law enforcement and revenue collection. He argued that without transferring power to the district level, meaningful progress is unattainable. “The country cannot be run without adhering to the Constitution. This party is firmly rooted in Pakistan’s Constitution and parliamentary democracy,” he asserted, criticizing those in power who violate constitutional principles daily.
Abbasi’s vision for the Awaam Pakistan Party revolves around accountability and civic responsibility. He stressed the importance of having members who contribute positively to society, stating, “We want people who will contribute something to the country, not take from it.” He emphasized that only those who give can help propel the nation forward.
The former prime minister also addressed skepticism regarding his party’s emergence, particularly the common perception that political movements in Pakistan require the establishment’s endorsement. “People ask if the establishment allowed me to launch this new party. This is the point we’ve arrived at,” he remarked, alluding to the pervasive influence of the military in Pakistani politics. He lamented that many citizens believe no significant change can occur without military approval, an assertion that reflects broader frustrations with the current political structure.
Abbasi criticized the prevailing political culture, which he described as prioritizing the retention of power over public service. “Politics has become more about keeping seats than serving the public,” he noted, positioning the Awaam Pakistan Party as a refreshing alternative committed to genuine governance.
The party’s launch coincides with Abbasi’s broader initiative, “Reimagining Pakistan,” which began in 2023 and involved nationwide discussions aimed at cultivating a new political narrative. He argued that only a new political entity dedicated to reform can navigate Pakistan out of its ongoing crises, which include inflation, energy shortages, corruption, unemployment, and educational disparities.
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Joining Abbasi in this venture is Miftah Ismail, the former finance minister who also left the PML-N due to policy disagreements. Ismail served in both Abbasi’s cabinet and the subsequent cabinet of Shehbaz Sharif. His presence underscores the growing coalition of like-minded politicians who are disenchanted with traditional party politics.
The announcement of the Awaam Pakistan Party garnered significant attention last month through a video shared on its official X platform, featuring disillusioned citizens voicing their concerns about pressing national issues. This public engagement is a crucial aspect of the party’s strategy, aiming to connect with voters and demonstrate a commitment to addressing their needs.
As Pakistan approaches a critical juncture in its political landscape, Abbasi’s new party represents both a challenge to the status quo and a call to action for those dissatisfied with current governance. The Awaam Pakistan Party seeks to inspire change through a platform grounded in constitutional values and active civic engagement, setting the stage for a potentially transformative political movement in the country.
