In partnership with
Profit
PM VOWS DECISIVE STEPS TO AVERT FUTURE UNREST AND DEMONSTRATIONS Thursday, 28 November, 2024 I | 25 Jamadi ul Awwal, 1446
Underscores govt would no longer tolerate activities that jeopardise nation’s economy and stability
P
g
ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
rime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to take decisive action against “future instances of violent protests and disruptive sit-ins.” He underscored that the government would no longer tolerate activities that jeopardise the nation’s economy and stability. Addressing the federal cabinet on Wednesday, the prime minister emphasised a zero-tolerance policy toward those inciting violence. While refraining from explicitly naming Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), he implicitly criticised the party for orchestrating recent demonstrations in the federal capital, which caused widespread disruption. He insisted that such incidents necessitate a more stringent approach to prevent their
recurrence. Sharif drew attention to the economic fallout as the protests took place. He spoke about how life in Islamabad and Rawalpindi was paralysed, leaving businesses shuttered and daily wage earners unable to make ends meet. “The turmoil disrupted supply chains, forced factory closures, and left patients in urgent need of medical care stranded due to blocked roads.” The prime minister also highlighted the broader economic ramifications, noting a sharp decline in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSE), which plummeted by 4,000 points in a single day after reaching a record high of 99,000 points. “These agitators have become adversaries of Pakistan’s progress,” he stated. “Their actions repeatedly derail our economy. Stability fosters business growth and investment, and we must safeguard these principles at all costs.”
g
Highlights broader economic ramifications, noting a sharp decline in the Pakistan Stock Exchange
Sharif also condemned the PTI for disruptive tactics, which he described as a harmful precedent in Pakistan’s political history, citing the 2014 sit-in; a 126day-long protest that delayed the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, stalling
‘Not final call, but merely a missed call,’ Tarar ‘ridicules’ PTI’s ‘colossal failure’ ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday fired a broadside against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) after the party called off its protest, mocking “it was not the final call, but merely a missed call.” “Such a colossal failure has become their fate as it was not the final call, but merely a missed call,” Attaullah Tarar stated while speaking at a press confer-
ence. The minister’s remarks came after the Imran Khan-founded party announced a “temporary suspension” of its “do-or-die” protest following a midnight crackdown by the law enforcement agencies (LEAs), which effectively dispersed the PTI workers who had gathered in the federal capital. Furthermore, the former ruling party has claimed that eight of its workers were martyred in the protest. Moreover, Tarar went on to share his observations about the “failed”
Chinese General, COAS discuss strengthening military cooperation RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the People’s Republic of China, met with met with General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan, on Wednesday, according to a statement from the military. The meeting, held at the General Headquarters (GHQ), was attended by General Zhang and a high-level Chinese delegation, as reported by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security dynamics, and the enhancement of bilateral defense cooperation. General Asim Munir highlighted the enduring and all-weather nature of Pakistan-China relations, emphasizing their foundation on mutual trust and cooperation. He reaffirmed that this historic partnership has withstood challenges over time and is set to continue growing. The COAS also expressed gratitude to China for its unwavering support to Pakistan, irrespective of changing international and regional circumstances. In turn, General Zhang praised Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to the strategic partnership and commended the professionalism and resolve of the Pakistan Army in its counter-terrorism efforts.
Rs 20.00 | Vol XV No 142 I 8 Pages I Karachi Edition
protest, noting that he had personally travelled from D-Chowk to Eleventh Avenue, witnessing a scene of chaos. “People here ran off, leaving behind their shoes and clothes,” he said. He also claimed there was evidence that the PTI had planned to storm Parliament by entering the Red Zone. “They had a clear plan, knowing exactly where they were coming from,” added the information minister.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
major projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He also referenced protests during key diplomatic events, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad, which alarmed foreign dignitaries and tarnished Pakistan’s global image. Even Saudi officials, the prime minister noted, expressed concerns about the instability stemming from political agitation. “This culture of chaos and anarchy is unacceptable,” Sharif said. “No responsible political party in our history has ever stooped to such levels. The PTI’s actions have damaged our international relationships and economic stability, for the sake of personal interests.” The prime minister extended gratitude to law enforcement agencies, including the Islamabad, Punjab, and Sindh police, as well as the Rangers, for their effective handling of recent protests.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
PTI’s sit-in continues, says Gandapur amid police claim of 954 arrests MANSEHRA
STAFF REPORT
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Wednesday resurfaced after disappearing from the venue of the PTI’s much-hyped “final call” protest at D-Chowk, claiming that the sit-in is a movement that is ongoing and will continue until the call from the party’s founder [to call it off]. While the Islamabad police chief said the law enforcement agencies have arrested nearly 1,000 protesters after crowds were dispersed and evicted from the federal capital in a sweeping security crackdown Addressing a press conference at residence of KP Assembly Speaker residence of KP Speaker Babar Saleem Swati in the afternoon, CM Gandapur said the sit-in “is still ongoing” and would not end till PTI founder Imran Khan ordered so. “People have died in this protest, we must pray for them,” the chief minister said during the press conference held at the residence of KP Speaker Babar Saleem Swati. It is to be noted that Gandapur reached Mansehra along with Bushra Bibi and party General
Secretary Omar Ayub from Islamabad late night when a grand operation was launched to disperse activists who were on a sit-in on the call of Imran Khan. He said that the PTI is a peaceful party. “We talk about the rule of law, protection of the constitution, true freedom and democracy in the country. Unfortunately, for the last two and a half years, our party has been subjected to oppression.” Gandapur said cases were fabricated against [the PTI leadership]. “Our mandate was stolen. Our leader is in jail in concocted cases. Our voters were tortured. We demand our rights but we are not allowed to protest peacefully.” The chief minister said a cruel
tradition has been set which is unprecedented in history. “We do not get justice from courts. We have only one choice, to protest without permission. He said “whenever we demanded to hold rally in Islamabad we were tortured.” “I want to make it clear, the sitin is ongoing. It will continue as it is launched on the call of [Imran] Khan. He had said that the sit-in will continue until he say so. I want to tell the whole of Pakistan that our sit-in is continuing.” He said “we were going peacefully. The question is why were we shot at? Whenever we got hold of a policeman or security force official, we let him go. Every family
Bushra Bibi, Gandapur, and PTI leaders booked in seven new cases in Attock ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Former first lady Bushra Bibi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, and several other senior leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have been booked in seven new cases in Attock, following the recent violent protests in the region. The cases, filed across three police stations in Attock, include charges under 23 different sections, such as terrorism, attempt to murder, vandalism, and other offenses. Among the prominent PTI figures booked are Bushra Bibi, Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub, former president Arif Alvi, and several other PTI lawmakers. The FIRs accuse the suspects of “snatching” tear gas, anti-riot kits, and mobile phones from policemen during PTI protests. These new cases follow a wave of legal actions against PTI leadership, including its founder Imran Khan, who, along with his wife Bushra Bibi and KP CM Gandapur, was previously implicated in multiple cases related to the protests. The cases are registered under anti-terrorism laws, reflecting the escalating tensions between PTI supporters and the federal government. The first report, filed at Taxila Police Station, accuses the accused of orchestrating violent protests, obstructing government operations, and damaging property. Charges include violations of Section 144, destruction of both private and public property, and incitement to violence. A separate case filed in Faisalabad implicates Imran Khan and 45 other individuals in damaging government vehicles, assaulting police officers, and setting fire to a motorcycle during the protests. Police reports suggest that Khan, currently detained in Adiala Jail, directed these actions and instructed PTI leaders to spearhead the “march on Islamabad,” further fueling the unrest.
No entry for Afghan citizens without NOC from 2025: Naqvi ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday announced that from December 31, no Afghan nationals will be allowed to stay in Islamabad without a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Speaking to the media during a visit to the ongoing construction of an underpass at F-8, Naqvi reaffirmed the government’s stance on regulating foreign nationals in the capital. “After December 31, anyone from Afghanistan without an NOC will be required to leave Islamabad,” Naqvi said, highlighting the government’s increased vigilance over foreign residents in the city. Addressing the aftermath of the recent protests, Naqvi dismissed claims about numerous fatalities circulating on social media. “There is a lot of noise about bodies in hospitals, but no one is giving specifics. I asked the protesters to provide the name of even one person who died. Their embarrassment is evident as they struggle to name anyone,” he said. The Interior Minister emphasised that a comprehensive report on the protests would soon be submitted to the High Court. Meanwhile, Islamabad appears to be returning to normal after the chaos caused by the protests. “The city is on track, with rapid progress on the F-9 road and underpass,” Naqvi added. Following the visit, the Minister and Punjab Rangers DG, Major General Mohammad Atif bin Akram, toured PIMS Hospital to meet with security personnel injured during the protests. The officials visited the injured officers from Rangers, FC, and the police, praising their bravery. “You are the heroes of the nation,” Naqvi said, commending their courage in thwarting the violent protests. “We are proud of you for maintaining patience and composure in the face of adversity.” The Minister also ensured that the injured personnel would receive the best possible medical treatment. Over 900 PTI workers arrested in three days: IG Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, announced on Wednesday that a total of 954 protesters have been arrested over the past three days, with 610 of those arrests occurring just on Tuesday. The arrests were part of the law enforcement response to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests in the capital. Speaking at a press conference alongside the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, IGP Rizvi reported the seizure of more than 200 vehicles and 39 different types of weapons, including Kalashnikovs, 12-bore guns, and other firearms, from protesters during the demonstration. “We have video evidence showing armed protesters advancing with masks on their faces,” Rizvi stated, highlighting the seriousness of the unrest.
US lawmakers, Amnesty decry govt D-Chowk crackdown ISLAMABAD
MONITORING REPORT
A number of United States’ lawmakers along with Amnesty International have voiced support for demonstrators who participated in the violence-marred protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers in Islamabad for the release of party founder-chairman Imran Khan. “The brutal repression of protesters in Pakistan and growing political violence is an attempt to suppress democracy and human rights [….] I stand with the brave Pakistanis who are rising up and protesting for change,” US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said in a post on X — formerly Twitter. The statement comes in the wake of the PTI’s “do-or-die” protest, called off by the party following a crackdown by the law enforcement agencies (LEAs), which resulted in the martyrdom of at least four Rangers personnel along with multiple policemen. The former ruling party, too, claimed
that eight of its workers were martyred during the protest. The latest protest episode was part of the PTI’s months-long efforts to secure Khan’s release who has been behind bars in Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail in various cases for more than a year now. The party, for quite some time, has reportedly been lobbying in Washington to garner support and secure the former prime minister’s release. Reacting to the latest political turmoil in Islamabad, Congressman Greg Casar condemned the violence and opined that the demonstration should be allowed to continue. “Thousands of Pakistanis are protesting for democracy and are being met with violent repression. I am hearing reports that the government is using live fire and tear gas against protesters [….] I condemn this violence and urge the government to allow these protests to continue peacefully,” he said in a social media post. Meanwhile, Representative Barbara Lee underscored the freedom of speech and
protest peacefully and said: “I stand with pro-democracy advocates in Pakistan as they fight for justice and human rights.” Her remarks were echoed by her colleague Representative Summer Lee who said: “I am moved by the bravery demonstrated by the Pakistani people as they protest for electoral integrity, and judicial fairness.” “I condemn any violent suppression of them exercising their fundamental rights. Everyone deserves to speak out and demand democracy,” the lawmaker added. Furthermore, Congressman Brad Sherman — while recalling his role in the October 23 letter by over 60 US lawmakers to US President Joe Biden for Khan’s release — said that the PTI founder’s supporters had a right to peacefully demonstrate. Reacting to the events in Islamabad, former US ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad called for the immediate commencement of a reconciliation process.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
PTI confirms at least eight of its workers dead in shooting at protesters ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on Wednesday officially called off its protest, claiming that “dozens” of its workers were shot at directly and killed, of which it said it had the details of eight and listed their purported names. In a press release issued, the party said it was “not a military or armed party and neither does it consider itself to be willing to have its citizens slaughtered by state murderers”. Highlighting that its supporters cleared “all difficulties, obstacles, violence, savage barbarism” to reach D-Chowk but “would not allow the bodies of its citizens
to pile up”. The statement said that the PTI had a “long history peaceful political struggle and kept blocking the way of the government plan to pile up bodies since November 24”. The party also stated the dates of previous protests since its 2022 ouster where it said it “failed each of the government’s attempts to drench every peaceful protest in blood” — three from 2022 and four from 2023. While calling off the protest, the PTI also reaffirmed its intention to “keep struggling” for “haqeeqi azadi” (actual freedom). The PTI paid tribute to citizens and its workers for coming to Islamabad from all across the country for the protest, as well as overseas Pakistanis who heeded its call for global protests.