'Govt can't allow repeat of May 9'

Khawaja Asif says PTI resorts to mischief during international events

SIALKOT:

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has said a number of international events are taking place in the country right now and the government cannot allow the PTI to repeat what the opposition party allegedly did on May 9, 2023 and November 26, 2024.

"The PTI has engaged in the politics of obstruction. Whenever anything happens that enhances Pakistan's standing in the comity of nations, this party starts creating mischief," Asif, who belongs to the ruling PML-N, said while addressing the media in his hometown of Sialkot.

"Today is being observed as a Day of Development and Progress, yet the PTI continues its politics of chaos and protests. Undermining the significance of any global event has become its hallmark," he added.

The defense minister was speaking in reference to the PTI's planned rally in Lahore at the first anniversary of last year's general elections, which the party described as highly rigged.

The district administration of Lahore on Thursday denied permission to the party to hold the rally.

In a circular issued by the Lahore deputy commissioner, it was stated that granting permission to the party was not feasible as the month of February was already "saturated with an array of high-profile events of national and international significance."

The PTI, however, had gone ahead with its scheduled rally in Swabi district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where the party rules. Talking with reference to the rally, Khawaja Asif said government machinery and resources are being used recklessly in Swabi.

He said political gatherings held within traditions were not objectionable but the PTI leadership had a pattern of marching on Islamabad.

"The true leadership of the PTI has fallen victim to the conspiracies of a specific group within their party. The PTI's attitude is proving detrimental to Pakistan's interests.

"They scheduled their protest on the same day as the Champions Trophy match. A repeat of the events of May 9 and November 26 will not be allowed," he added.