Asif says Chaudhry Salik's remarks about corruption in Punjab 'beyond my understanding'

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed confusion on Wednesday over remarks made by Chaudhry Salik Hussain, a prominent member of the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), regarding corruption in Punjab. During a recent television interview, Salik had praised former Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervez Elahi but criticized the current administration led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, alleging widespread corruption.

In response, Maryam Nawaz demanded a retraction and an apology from Salik, demanding Rs5 billion in damages. Asif stated that Salik's comments were beyond his understanding, emphasizing that corruption is a significant issue in society and the responsibility of political leadership at both federal and provincial levels to address it.

Salik had previously criticized government spending, particularly the use of official aircraft, and called for increased ministerial accountability. The controversy highlights the fractured relationship between the Chaudhry family and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership.