In a recent press conference at D-Chowk, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of involving foreign nationals, including Afghan citizens, in their ongoing protests. According to Naqvi, “33 out of 100 individuals arrested in PTI’s last protest were Afghans, and several other foreign nationals were detained in the past two days.”
The minister expressed concerns over the involvement of foreign elements, questioning PTI’s intentions: “Are Pakistani citizens involved in your protests, or is this a movement led by foreigners?”
Naqvi further stated that authorities would release a comprehensive report on the damages incurred during the protests once they have concluded. He emphasized the negative impact these demonstrations have had on the country, asserting, “PTI protests bring harm to the country and create considerable hardship for citizens.”
In response to concerns over communication disruptions, Naqvi confirmed that mobile services across Pakistan remain operational. However, he clarified that mobile data services had been temporarily suspended to manage the situation, assuring the public that efforts are underway to restore them promptly.
The Interior Minister also pointed out his communication with PTI’s Barrister Gohar, highlighting the presence of foreign delegations visiting Pakistan at the time. He remarked on the timing of PTI’s protests, stating, “PTI’s protest call always coincides with major global events or visits by foreign dignitaries,” questioning whether this was purely coincidental.
Reaffirming the government’s stance, Naqvi declared, “The government is neither intimidated nor yielding. Anyone attempting to reach Islamabad or D-Chowk will be detained.”
The political tension continues to escalate as PTI’s protests unfold, leaving citizens to contend with the disruption and uncertainty surrounding the protests’ true objectives.
