Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has said she is surprised to face criticism for actively working in the field, remarking that it is the first time she has heard people question why a Chief Minister is doing her job.
Addressing a ceremony in Mianwali, Maryam Nawaz said the worst flood situation in Punjab is currently in Gujrat, where a new sewerage system is being built.
“Criticising is easy but working hard is difficult. You actually have to work. Punjab cabinet members are working day and night in the flood-hit areas. I have directed ministers to remain in the field until all affected people receive relief,” she stated.
Maryam Nawaz added that she finds it ironic to be criticised for personally supervising relief operations: “When I sat in a boat, I was criticised — ‘why did the CM sit in a boat?’ To my critics I say, I understand your helplessness.”
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Referring indirectly to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, she said, “When floods hit in 2022, the then PM conducted an aerial survey, adjusted his glasses and said, ‘Oh, there is a lot of destruction.’ I am Nawaz Sharif’s daughter; I will not stretch my hands before anyone for help.”
The Chief Minister also said that unlike other provinces “where neither the CM works nor the system functions,” she expects her cabinet to be on the ground with the people, because “when the CM steps out, everyone has to work.”
