Key Takeaways
- Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz used the provincial government’s jet for her daughter’s graduation ceremony in London.
- Information Minister Azma Bokhari rejected claims that the trip was for personal gain, stating all expenses were paid by the CM.
- Opposition leaders continue to criticize the use of official resources for a private visit.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz faced criticism after using the provincial government’s jet for a private visit to London to attend her daughter Mahnoor’s graduation ceremony.
The controversy arose when opposition leaders questioned the use of official resources for a personal event, sparking a debate over the appropriate use of government assets.
In response, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari defended the CM, stating that she had paid all expenses for the trip out of her own pocket.
Despite the controversy, CM Maryam Nawaz maintained a measured approach, avoiding detailed responses and promising to address the issue after returning home and consulting with her team.
The Gulfstream G500, reportedly valued at around $38 million to $42 million, has been under scrutiny since its acquisition by the provincial government, adding to the debate over the use of such expensive assets.
Opposition leaders, including former federal minister and PTI leader Moonis Elahi, linked the controversy to the rising cost of fuel, highlighting the perceived misuse of public funds.
Meanwhile, CM Maryam Nawaz’s daughter Mahnoor is set to tie the knot on Saturday, with her nikkah ceremony scheduled to be held at the Sharif family’s residence in Jati Umra.
The ceremony is expected to be a private family affair, with only close relatives and members of the extended family attending, according to a family source.
Absolutely incorrect. The Punjab chief minister paid all expenses for her London trip out of her own pocket.
Azma Bokhari, Punjab Information Minister
