'PTI urged to protest in house'

Naqvi, Tarar warn against street protests during visits from foreign dignitaries

ISLAMABAD:

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Ataullah Tarar on Friday urged the PTI to protest in parliament rather than on the streets, especially during visits by foreign dignitaries.

In separate media talks, the ministers emphasized that the government could not allow frequent disruptions in the federal capital, as such actions send a negative signal about the country's stability. They highlighted that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Islamabad would contribute to economic growth and stability.

"When roads are blocked, containers placed, and citizens face hardships, people need to consider why the government is taking such measures and who is responsible," Interior Minister Naqvi said during his press briefing in Islamabad.

He acknowledged the inconvenience caused to the public but emphasized the importance of ensuring the security of foreign guests, stating, "We apologize for the disruptions, but it's vital to guarantee that our guests feel safe in Pakistan."

Naqvi also remarked that Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur should prioritize his responsibilities as a Pakistani citizen first and a political figure second.

He pointed out that, as chief minister, Gandapur remained in contact with government officials and should consider his actions carefully.

Meanwhile, Information Minister Tarar advised the K-P chief minister to focus on local issues, such as reducing transport fares in Peshawar, rather than engaging in street protests. "Protests should take place in parliament, not in the streets, as they project a negative image of the country," Tarar stated during his press conference.

Naqvi also assured that during PTI protests in Islamabad, the government followed strict security protocols. "Except for the superintendent of police, no officers were armed. If there is any gunfire, its source will be identified, and video evidence will be reviewed," he added.

When asked about the protesters coming to Islamabad from K-P, Naqvi said Gandapur was the chief minister and he could hold as many protests there as he wanted. "Coming here for protest without permission is like storming Islamabad. The way their protest is going on will not be allowed," he warned.

"If you bring men from K-P every fourth day and storm Islamabad, it will not be allowed. We will not allow anyone to damage property," he said. When asked specifically, if Chief Minister Gandapur could be arrested, Naqvi said: "Let him come here first, then we will see."

Responding to a question about crackdown on a jirga planned by Manzoor Pashteen, the interior minister clarified that it was the Peshawar police handling the matter, not the Islamabad police. He added, "And everyone knows under whose control the Peshawar police operate."

At his press conference, Tarar also highlighted the economic benefits for the country from the Malaysian prime minister's visit. "Malaysia will import meat and rice from Pakistan. "Initially, 100,000 tons of rice and meat worth $200 million will be exported," he said.

Similarly, the minister added, information technology (IT) and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors would also get a boost. Tarar told reporters that several foreign dignitaries are scheduled to visit Pakistan in the coming weeks. This includes a high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia and the heads of state and government from 12 countries who will participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting.