PHOTO: AFP
Although the PM House did not confirm the development, sources maintained the chances of Sindh governor’s resignation were high and Ebad is expected to tender his resignation within a few days.
“The Pakistan Army, Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), Sindh Rangers and Sindh stakeholders have all asked the federal government to ask Ebad to resign,” the source said.
The source went on to explain that Ebad’s removal followed a demand by stakeholders to remove CPLC chief Ahmad Chinoy, who is also affiliated with the Muttahida Qaumi Movement.
"The resignation is inevitable as the entire party (MQM) is sitting in the Governor House."
“MQM's presence in the Governor House is not only affecting the ongoing Karachi operation, but also being used to influence investigations and threaten law enforcement officers, business community and others concerned,” the source added.
An MQM spokesperson refused to comment on the development when contacted.
Read: 'Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad expected to resign within 48 hours'
Further, the source said, “The federal government kept Ebad as governor due to MQM’s presence in federal government but owing to the ongoing Karachi operation, time has come for Ebad to quit.”
The PML-N led federal government has already begun the consultation process for a new governor but will make its final decision after reaching consensus with all stakeholders.
“Rangers want to target criminals in the city and to arrest those criminals belonging to MQM and other parties,” the source further said.
MQM chief Altaf Hussain and his party have already disassociated themselves from Ebad and demanded his resignation but that demand never materialised.
Read: MQM asks Ishratul Ebad to resign as Sindh governor
Further, the source said, “The Sindh Governor is also still in contact with Pervez Musharraf and is trying to request Pakistan Army to be soft on MQM. However, Musharraf's plea was not adhered to.”
“Musharraf's contacts with anyone annoy PM Nawaz as well,” the source added.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Governor House denied reports about the governor’s resignation, dismissing such reports as media speculation.
“No one has asked the Governor to resign yet. Today, he has jointly chaired the apex committee with chief minister and will continue his job till further orders.”
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