The capital should be moved from Islamabad to Lahore: Shabbar Zaidi

Former FBR Chairman Shabbar Zaidi has suggested that the capital should be moved from Islamabad to Lahore. He said Islamabad is an artificial city, and Lahore has historical, cultural, and political importance which makes it more suitable to be the capital of Pakistan. He shared this view during the launch ceremony of his autobiography “32 Anker Road” in Lahore.

While speaking at the event, Shabbar Zaidi admitted that he was not able to bring reforms to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). He said the tax system needs serious changes, but the government and bureaucracy are not interested in real reform. According to him, it is very difficult to work honestly within the current system.

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Zaidi also called for a ban on religious political parties. He said Lahore used to be a city of nationalists and communists, but it was damaged when liberal thinking was pushed aside. He believes that bringing back liberal values is necessary for progress.

Other speakers at the event praised Shabbar Zaidi for his honesty and bold views. They said his book highlights major problems in Pakistan’s economy and society. Journalist Hussain Naqi said democracy has almost disappeared in the country. Former State Bank Governor Shahid Hafeez Kardar blamed the IMF for economic issues and also supported the need for reform in FBR.

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In the end, Shabbar Zaidi repeated his suggestion that the capital should be moved from Islamabad to Lahore, to make the political and cultural center of the country stronger and more connected to its roots.