POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Khawaja Saad Rafique Criticizes U.S. on Nuclear Program, Proposes National Committee

PML-N's Khawaja Saad Rafique criticizes U.S. interest in Pakistan's nuclear program, calls for a national committee to resolve political crisis and restore stability.
2024-12-28
Khawaja Saad Rafique Criticizes U.S. on Nuclear Program, Proposes National Committee

In a passionate speech at a national seminar marking the 52nd martyrdom anniversary of Khawaja Muhammad Rafique Shaheed, Khawaja Saad Rafique, a senior leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and former federal minister, expressed concerns about the changing dynamics of Pakistan's relationship with the United States under the new administration.

U.S. Interests in Pakistan's Nuclear Program

Khawaja Saad Rafique stated that the new American administration has no interest in former Prime Minister Imran Khan but rather has its focus on Pakistan's nuclear program and ballistic missile technology. He emphasized that the U.S.'s intentions align with what he termed as "American colonialism," aimed at undermining Pakistan’s strategic defense capabilities.

"I want to say with great respect that this new American administration has no interest in Imran Khan, but their interest is the same as American colonialism—our nuclear and missile programs," Rafique remarked.

The Importance of Negotiation and Unity

The PML-N leader further highlighted the strength of Pakistan, saying that while the nation may not always recognize its own power, its enemies certainly do. He warned that Pakistan is under increasing pressure and called for unity in the face of external challenges.

"When you are being surrounded and you are even visible, can you close your eyes, can you remain silent?" Rafique said, urging for vigilance and action.

Proposal for a National Committee

Addressing the ongoing political crisis in Pakistan, Khawaja Saad Rafique proposed the formation of a national committee to bring all political forces together and resolve the issues facing the country. He suggested that figures such as Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Dr. Malik Baloch, Aftab Khan Sherpao, Pir Pagara, and Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan be included in the committee. These individuals, he noted, are neither part of the current government nor the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) alliance.

Rafique stressed the need for experienced politicians to carefully consider the nation's future to prevent further losses, warning that continued insults to state institutions and political polarization could have severe consequences.

Politics Cannot Be Stopped Unnaturally

Khawaja Saad Rafique also addressed the perception that politics in Pakistan could be "ended." He reminded the audience that political figures like Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif could not be erased from the political landscape, and similarly, current political forces could not be stopped by non-political methods. He emphasized that political battles must be fought through political means, not through non-political methods, asserting the resilience of Pakistan’s political system.

Conclusion

Khawaja Saad Rafique’s address highlights the complex political landscape Pakistan is facing, from external pressures regarding its defense capabilities to internal political fragmentation. His proposal for a national committee aims to bridge divides and steer the country towards a more stable future, emphasizing the necessity for political dialogue and unity to avoid further crises.