‘Unknown forces’ operating in the country, says Nawaz after journalists harassed

Pre-poll rigging has begun in the country, alleges Nawaz

Deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday, alluding to the recent harassment of journalists, said 'unknown forces' are operating in the country and the situation needs to change for the betterment of Pakistan.



On June 5, journalist and senior anchorperson Gul Bukhari was on her way to appear in a TV show when her vehicle was intercepted in Lahore. She was later returned to her residence. In a separate incident, senior journalist and television anchorperson Asad Kharal was reportedly attacked by ‘masked men’ near Allama Iqbal International Airport

Concerns about freedom of expression and press censorship have grown in the country as journalists continue to face challenges including physical assault, threats, illegal detention, arrest and at times murder.

Nawaz also claimed that pre-poll rigging has begun in the country.

"It began when I was removed from the post of president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). I was disqualified for life."

"PML-N candidates weren't permitted party tickets in the Senate elections. Has it ever happened before that candidates are deprived of party tickets?"

The deposed premier further said that suo motu notices are taken on 'everything' yet never taken on such issues.

 



Nawaz further said that progress and change are inevitable, and will take place soon. When asked regarding his summon in the Asghar Khan case, the former premier said he was waiting for Barrister Zafarullah Khan, and a decision will be made after consulting Khan.

Referring to the recent Reham-Imran scandal, Nawaz said that he only read of the scandal in newspapers and on social media.