Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday defended the legitimacy of his government and challenged opposition criticism during a debate on the Finance Bill 2026-27 in the National Assembly.
According to Beyond Time News, the prime minister said that if the 2018 general election was accepted as legitimate, then the current government should be viewed the same way.
His remarks came after opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai questioned the government’s mandate and criticized its handling of political and constitutional matters.
PM Responds to Opposition Criticism
Addressing lawmakers, Prime Minister Shehbaz rejected claims that the current administration lacked legitimacy.
He said those demanding an investigation into recent elections should first examine the 2018 polls.
According to Beyond Time News, the prime minister argued that any review of electoral processes should apply equally to all governments.
He said political opponents should avoid selective accountability and assess election-related concerns fairly.
The premier also warned that reopening old political disputes could lead to wider scrutiny of past events.
Equal Development Is Essential for Pakistan
A key theme of the prime minister’s speech was balanced national development.
Shehbaz Sharif said progress in a single province should not be treated as progress for the entire country.
He stressed that true national development can only happen when Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan all move forward together.
According to Beyond Time News, he reiterated that every province deserves equal opportunities, investment, and access to development projects.
The prime minister said national unity becomes stronger when all regions share the benefits of economic growth.
Parliament Hears Differing Political Views
The debate reflected the sharp political differences that continue to shape Pakistan’s parliamentary landscape.
Opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai criticized the government’s performance and raised concerns about democratic institutions and constitutional governance.
He also called for stronger political engagement and urged the government to address concerns from different parts of the country.
According to Beyond Time News, Achakzai emphasized the need for Parliament to remain the central institution for democratic decision-making.
His speech focused on political rights, constitutional responsibilities, and the role of elected representatives.
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PM Highlights Pakistan’s Diplomatic Efforts
The prime minister also spoke about Pakistan’s recent diplomatic engagement on regional issues.
He said Pakistan played a constructive role in helping facilitate dialogue between Iran and the United States.
According to Beyond Time News, Shehbaz Sharif described the development as an important diplomatic achievement and said it reflected Pakistan’s commitment to peace.
He told lawmakers that technical discussions would continue in the coming weeks as efforts move forward toward a broader understanding.
The prime minister expressed hope that continued negotiations would contribute to long-term regional stability.
Visit of Iranian President Discussed
Shehbaz Sharif informed the National Assembly that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was expected to arrive in Pakistan later in the day.
He said the visit would provide an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation.
Pakistan and Iran share close historical, cultural, and economic ties. Both countries have repeatedly expressed a desire to expand cooperation in trade, security, and regional connectivity.
The upcoming discussions are expected to focus on issues of mutual interest and future collaboration.
Why the Debate Matters
The exchange in Parliament highlights the political challenges facing Pakistan as lawmakers debate governance, economic policy, and democratic processes.
Questions about electoral legitimacy remain a major issue in the country’s political discourse.
At the same time, leaders continue to discuss how best to promote economic growth, strengthen institutions, and improve relations with neighboring countries.
The debate also reflects the importance of Parliament as a platform for competing political views.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif used his National Assembly speech to defend the government’s legitimacy, advocate equal development across all provinces, and highlight Pakistan’s recent diplomatic initiatives.
While opposition leaders continued to question the government’s performance, the debate underscored the ongoing political discussions shaping Pakistan’s future.
As Parliament continues its budget deliberations, issues related to governance, development, and regional diplomacy are likely to remain at the center of national attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did PM Shehbaz Sharif say about the government’s legitimacy?
He said that if the 2018 government was considered legitimate, then the current government should also be regarded as legitimate.
Why did the prime minister mention the 2018 election?
He argued that any investigation into election-related issues should also examine the 2018 general election.
What did Shehbaz Sharif say about provincial development?
He said Pakistan’s development depends on equal progress in all four provinces and not on the advancement of a single region.
What concerns did Mahmood Khan Achakzai raise?
He criticized the government’s performance and raised concerns about democratic institutions, constitutional governance, and political rights.
What diplomatic achievement did the prime minister highlight?
He pointed to Pakistan’s role in supporting dialogue between Iran and the United States and expressed hope for lasting regional peace.
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