Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has defended the legitimacy of the current government, stating that if the 2018 general elections are considered legitimate, then the present government must also be regarded as legitimate. Speaking during the debate on the Finance Bill 2026-27 in the National Assembly, the prime minister rejected opposition claims questioning his government’s constitutional status.
Responding to criticism from Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that if the opposition genuinely wanted an inquiry into election transparency, the investigation should begin with the 2018 general elections.
The prime minister argued that if no electoral manipulation occurred in 2018, including allegations of ballot stuffing, political pressure, or forced mobilization of supporters, then the previous government should be considered legitimate. Likewise, he maintained that the current government deserves the same recognition.
Addressing Parliament, Shehbaz Sharif stated that opening an investigation into the 2018 elections would provide clarity regarding the legitimacy of successive governments. He also rejected accusations that his administration had weakened democratic institutions or acted outside constitutional boundaries.
During his speech, the prime minister stressed that national development cannot be achieved if only one province progresses. He reaffirmed that Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan must all receive equal opportunities for growth and development, emphasizing that balanced provincial development is essential for Pakistan’s progress.
Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic role in facilitating dialogue between Iran and the United States. He expressed confidence that the recently signed Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would lead to a lasting peace agreement after 60 days of technical-level negotiations.
The prime minister described Pakistan’s mediation efforts during the talks held in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, as a historic diplomatic achievement that earned international recognition. He said the agreement and subsequent ceasefire represented an important step toward regional peace and stability.
He further informed the National Assembly that Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian was expected to visit Pakistan to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, regional connectivity, and diplomatic relations.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the newly elected leadership in Gilgit-Baltistan, including the Chief Minister, Speaker, and Deputy Speaker, expressing hope that they would work for the prosperity and development of the region.
