Rana Sanaullah, the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, spoke candidly on Samaa TV’s ‘Nadeem Malik Live’, addressing a range of critical political and national concerns. These included the issues of terrorism, internal political disputes within PTI, the ongoing canal water distribution controversy, and the challenges faced by Hajj pilgrims.
Political Disputes Within PTI
Rana Sanaullah emphasized the need for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to resolve its internal affairs, particularly regarding its leadership and meeting attendance. He stated, “The PTI should regularize its affairs; only those authorized by the party should attend meetings. No one else should be involved.”
He also voiced his concern about a media-driven narrative aimed at creating unnecessary news, questioning why certain individuals continue to stir political unrest.
“The PTI founder’s sisters are worthy of respect and honor,” he said, questioning why more than six people attend the meetings. “The PTI should cooperate on the issue of meetings.”
The minister further remarked on the leadership dispute within PTI, stressing that political differences should be addressed through dialogue between the parties, not through conflict or unnecessary controversy.
Terrorism and National Security
Rana Sanaullah also raised serious security concerns, particularly about the growing terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. He accused terrorists of collaborating with foreign forces, notably with the support and financing from the Indian intelligence agency “RAW”.
Sanaullah mentioned that these terrorists have established safe havens in Afghanistan and are increasingly operating in Pakistan’s border areas. “Terrorism has no justification; no demand can legitimize such acts,” he declared, emphasizing the need for a united response to these threats.
Canal Water Dispute
On the ongoing dispute over the diversion of canal water from the Indus River, Sanaullah questioned why the issue was being taken to the Council of Common Interests (CCI) without first obtaining consensus. He also raised concerns about the lack of attention given to other canals involved in the dispute.
“Why is only one canal being highlighted? Where are the discussions on the others?” he asked. Despite this, he assured that Punjab would not take a single drop of water from Sindh without a consensus, emphasizing that the matter could be resolved through dialogue between all parties. “The canals issue cannot be complicated as we will take the PPP into confidence,” Rana Sana stressed.
Hajj Arrangements, Delays
The senior PML-N leader also touched upon the challenges faced by Hajj pilgrims this year, acknowledging delays caused by the late approval of the Hajj policy. He urged that the matter be escalated to the prime minister’s office, proposing the formation of a high-level committee to visit Saudi Arabia and resolve the issues faced by Hajj operators and pilgrims.
“The money for 67,000 pilgrims has already been transferred, but the delays have complicated the arrangements,” he stated. He also pointed out that private Hajj operators were not allowed to accept applications under the government scheme, which has seemingly led to the privatization of the operation for many. “Whether the issue lies with the ministry or the government, we need to send the pilgrims first and address any mistakes later,” he concluded.
Call for Consensus
Sanaullah concluded by stressing the importance of consensus and cooperation in resolving political and administrative issues in Pakistan. He called for a collective effort from all political parties to work towards the greater good of the country.
“If all parties are honest in their efforts, these issues can be resolved,” he said, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and understanding between political factions.
