LAHORE: Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party (IPP) patron-in-chief Jahangir Khan Tareen, who had worked tirelessly for Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) a decade ago, shared his experiences and observations after Imran Khan, the leader of his former party, ascended to the prime minister’s chair.

“I think the prime minister’s chair is a dangerous thing because it can make one feel like a king and make one forget the public who elected him,” he said.

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Mr Tareen said he observed that people started to heap praises on Imran Khan as soon as he assumed the position, indicating a shift in dynamics that led him to part ways with PTI and establish IPP.

Speaking at an election campaign meeting in Lodhran, Tareen shared his vision for the future of Pakistan. He expressed his commitment to the people of Lodhran and the country, and met various personalities including former tehsil nazim Syed Asghar Shah Gilani and candidate for constituency PP-228, Nadir Khan.

He said he is determined to leave the past behind and focus on the future. “Now we have to look forward,” he said, emphasising the need to think about the country’s progress. He believes that if Pakistan progresses, so will Lodhran and its people.

Tareen also highlighted the importance of a strong economy and job creation for the youth, which he said would be his party’s first preference.

He stressed the need for Pakistan to be respected in the world and for leaders to think about the country’s future.

He said the people of Lodhran have given him respect and he feels it is his duty to serve them in return. “God willing, people will realise that we have cast our vote in the right place,” he said.

He also said with age, his passion for work has only increased and expressed the hope that if the people succeed, Lodhran will be known all over Pakistan as a progressive city.

Tareen’s vision for a prosperous Pakistan, with a strong economy, job opportunities for the youth, and respect on the global stage, resonates with many. As the election campaign continues, it remains to be seen how this vision will translate into votes for the IPP.

Published in Dawn, January 17th, 2024