Talal Chaudhry says govt will continue consulting Bilawal on national issues

PML-N leader Talal Chaudhry has said PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari remains an important government ally and will continue to be consulted on legislation and national issues despite political differences.

In an exclusive interview with 24 News, Chaudhry described Bilawal as a young and emotional political leader, saying his reaction was linked to election results.

“Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is young, emotional and also the head of a political party,” he said, adding that the government had consistently consulted him on matters ranging from the Presidency to Sindh, legislation and other national issues.

“We have always consulted him and will continue to do so in the future,” Chaudhry said.

Turning to the opposition, the PML-N leader said opposition parties should play their parliamentary role instead of merely availing salaries, allowances, vehicles and lodges.

He questioned why opposition members were not participating in parliamentary committees and urged them to fulfil their responsibilities.

Chaudhry welcomed political meetings and consultations, saying national issues should be discussed through dialogue.

Referring to a recent Supreme Court decision, he said the government had filed a review petition because it had objections to some aspects of the ruling.

“We do not want a court decision to be issued that later cannot be implemented,” he said, adding that such a ruling could prompt other prisoners to seek similar facilities.

Chaudhry said the government’s objection from the outset was to meetings being held after blocking roads and then being given a political colour to build a narrative against state institutions and Pakistan.

He also said there had previously been no call for a long march on September 27.