ABBOTTABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf added another feather to its cap when PPP stalwart Nazar Mohammad Gondal along with his family and group joined the PTI on Tuesday.

It was the second major entry from Punjab into the PTI within a week at the lush green hilly area of Abbottabad before a sizeable crowed at Nathiagali.

Speaking on this occasion, PTI chairman Imran Khan said that joining of leaders of big political parties manifested that the PTI was the only political force which was fighting against corruption and nepotism in society. He said the PTI believed in the rule of law and strengthening of institutions.

Nazar Mohammad Gondal, a former federal minister and one of the PPP icons in central Punjab, said that it was difficult for him to disassociate himself from mother party PPP. But he said it was a reality and one had to choose the path which could put the country on the right direction. So, Mr Gondal said, he took this decision after thorough consideration and exchange of views with friends.

The PTI chief said the entire nation was looking at the JIT, adding that people were satisfied that at least accountability process of the Sharif family had started which was a great achievement.

He said it was now a clear message to all corrupt rulers that they would have to face the courts for looting national wealth.

Mr Khan said the PTI waged a struggle for the rule of law and end to corruption, adding that the day had come when nobody was above the law. He said his party would continue efforts to strengthen institutions.

About objections to the JIT’s role in inv­estigating the Panama Papers case, he said rulers were trying to defame and create doubts in eyes of the nation about the JIT.

Published in Dawn, June 7th, 2017