Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar asserted in an interview on Wednesday that the media in Pakistan enjoys greater freedom compared to the West, attributing this distinction to what he described as “stricter regulations” in Western nations. The premier, speaking with CNBC on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, addressed various topics, including the economic outlook, upcoming elections, and allegations against former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
During the interview, PM Kakar responded to concerns about the upcoming elections possibly being rigged, urging critics to allow the polls to take place before questioning their integrity. He pointed out the shifting narratives, noting that initially, some doubted the occurrence of elections, but now critics are calling them “one of the most rigged elections in history.”
The discussion also touched on the withdrawal of Western forces from Afghanistan. PM Kakar acknowledged the differing perspectives between Pakistan and the Western hemisphere, emphasizing the challenges Pakistan faced due to the abrupt exit, including the implications of equipment given to the Afghan army ending up on the black market.
Predicting broader consequences, PM Kakar highlighted potential risks of a “spillover effect” and stressed the need for strengthening the institutional structure of the Pakistani state at both national and global levels.
Addressing the issue of deporting illegal immigrants, mainly Afghan nationals, PM Kakar emphasized that while some individuals were involved in criminal activities, not all were, and there was no perpetual ban on their return. He outlined a process for those wishing to come back to Pakistan, involving obtaining travel documents and ensuring regulated movement.
In response to whether U.S. actions in Afghanistan had brought Pakistan closer to China, PM Kakar negated any direct impact on the existing strategic closeness with China. He underscored the enduring relationship between Pakistan and China, stating that regional developments, including those in Afghanistan, would not affect their ties.
The interview provided insights into Pakistan’s perspective on regional challenges, the implications of the Afghan withdrawal, and the country’s stance on issues such as elections, security concerns, and international relationships. PM Kakar’s comments shed light on Pakistan’s efforts to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and strengthen its institutional foundations in the face of evolving regional dynamics.
