Saving the country: Altaf suggests Nawaz step down if necessary

MQM chief urges prime minister do all he can to avoid loss of life, property, address complaints of opposition.


Rabia Ali August 02, 2014

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain on Saturday suggested that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif step down from his high office if the premier felt there was imminent danger to lives or property in the upcoming long march and protests.

In a statement issued on Saturday night, the MQM supremo urged Nawaz to take the first step and address genuine complaints of the opposition groups through dialogue.

Urging the Prime Minister to realise his responsibility, Hussain advised Nawaz to call an all parties’ conference and address their reservations.

However, if Nawaz felt there was danger to lives or to property in the upcoming long march or protests, the premier should bravely step down and hand over the reins to someone else from within his party after due consultations with party members. The other option would be to find a Constitutional solution to the crisis.

Hussain urged the masses, political and religious leaders to sort out differences through meaningful dialogue.

He urged the aggrieved parties, who intended to carry out long marches and protest demonstrations on August 12 and 14, to refrain from aggressive actions and confrontations. Instead, he asked them to seek a solution through dialogue and discussions.

The MQM chief pointed out that the country was passing through a critical phase where the army was engaged in an operation in North Waziristan against extremists.

He said this was not the time to fight each other and such conflict might cost the country. Noting that Pakistan was going through a defining phase, it needed wisdom to take decisions for the sake of the country. He said everyone has to be mature while dealing with the nation’s fate.

PTI adamant on August 14 march

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has asked for a complete audit of votes polled in the May 2013 elections. PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi had taken a step further, demanding mid-term polls.

Sources say that if the demands are not met, the PTI would continue to hold their long march in the capital city.

The Pakistan Awami Tehreek is due to formally announce its protest plans on Sunday, having indicated that it may stage protests at D-Chowk on August 14, in sync with PTI.

COMMENTS (11)

Malveros | 10 years ago | Reply

Altaf Hussein should worry more about whether is bail application will be extended past December.

Saba | 10 years ago | Reply

Altaf Hussain is THE RIGHT MAN !

VIEW MORE COMMENTS
Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ