Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi rebuffed on Thursday speculations on social media suggesting the ouster of President Asif Ali Zardari, calling them baseless.
In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Naqvi defended the unity between the country's political and military leadership.
He firmly denied any discussions or intentions concerning the president's resignation or a change in leadership.
He described the rumors as "malicious campaign" aimed at discrediting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal General Asim Munir, asserting there is no truth to claims suggesting political rifts or changes in leadership.
"We are fully aware of who is behind the malicious campaign targeting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the chief of army staff," Naqvi wrote on X.
Referring to speculations suggesting that President Zardari has been asked to resign or that the COAS is seeking presidency, the interior minister said "there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist".
"I have categorically stated that there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist about the president being asked to resign or the COAS aspiring to assume the presidency," he asserted.
"The president of Pakistan enjoys a strong and respectful relationship with the leadership of the armed forces," the minister said.
He quoted President Zardari as having "clearly" stated: "I know who is spreading these falsehoods, why they are doing so, and who stands to benefit from this propaganda."
Naqvi stressed that the "sole focus" of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir was Pakistan's strength and stability, and "nothing else".
"To those involved in this narrative, do whatever you wish in collaboration with hostile foreign agencies. As for us, we will do whatever is necessary to make Pakistan strong again, InshAllah," Naqvi added.
Naqvi made similar statements in Sukkur last week, telling journalists not to believe in social media rumours. "Some people are disturbed by our unity."
He emphasised that the alignment between Pakistan's political leadership, the military, and the government is the reason for the growing spread of disinformation. "For the first time, politicians, the government, and the military establishment are on the same page, and that bothers certain individuals."
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) also issued a statement to put to rest to speculations about the possible removal of President Zardari.
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