Hanif Abbasi Criticizes Khawaja Asif for Commenting on Former Army Chief Gen Bajwa

ISLAMABAD: Federal Railways Minister **Hanif Abbasi** has sharply criticized Defence Minister **Khawaja Asif**, saying he should refrain from making remarks about former Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa because he had benefitted from him in the past.

In an interview with a private TV channel, Abbasi said that a person who forgets the advantages he once received is likely to speak the same way about the current government in the future. He added that he maintains consistent respect for **Nawaz Sharif** and the current **Field Marshal**, and continues to stand by his views.

“There is no communication between me and Khawaja Asif because we do not have that kind of relationship,” Abbasi remarked.

He added that Prime Minister **Shehbaz Sharif** is overwhelmed with responsibilities and has no time for political reconciliation efforts.

Speaking about his relationship with **Ishaq Dar**, Abbasi said it is “spiritual,” adding that he affectionately refers to Dar as “Pir Sahib.” He clarified that Ishaq Dar has never asked him to speak against Khawaja Asif.

Abbasi also expressed respect for **Maulana Fazlur Rehman** but criticized his recent remarks about **Maryam Nawaz**, calling them inappropriate. “If he considers Maryam Nawaz like a daughter, then such comments are not suitable,” he said.

Regarding the military leadership, Abbasi stated that **Field Marshal Asim Munir** is effectively the Chief of Defence Forces, adding that a notification of his position may already have been issued. “We will announce it whenever we wish,” he added.

Commenting on the PTI’s situation, Abbasi said the party is living in an unrealistic dream. “We have seen many prisons, but we have never conspired against the country,” he asserted.