Islamabad: Senior leader of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed, announced during a press conference that the party will launch a nationwide protest against the government’s economic policies. He said PPP will go to every extent, and the entire responsibility for the consequences will lie with the rulers.

Chaudhry Manzoor criticized the statement of the Defence Minister, who called the increase in salaries of the Speaker and Chairman "financial obscenity", saying this applies not just to them, but to the entire elite class including cabinet members, parliamentarians, and judiciary.

He pointed out the plight of farmers and highlighted that the World Bank itself is raising concerns over rising poverty levels. He condemned the government’s decision to end pensions after ten years, calling it a cruel move.

He cited the 2018 census, saying over 100 million people live below the poverty line. Meanwhile, salaries in many sectors have been increased by more than 200%.

"When it comes to the working class, the government claims salary increases should match inflation. Yet, their own decisions have caused a waste of Rs. 6,200 billion," he added.

He stated that five major crops are showing negative growth, and agriculture is being deliberately destroyed just to ensure cheap labor for urban centers.

Chaudhry Manzoor said PPP had demanded a 50% increase in salaries, but the government only cared about the elite, not the people. "With a minimum wage of Rs. 37,000, electricity bills alone consume the entire amount. How can the poor survive?" he asked.