MQM sacks Mohammad Anwar from Rabita Committee

Party says MQM leader not well, advises members not to contact him on organisational matters

KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) on Sunday removed senior party leader Mohammad Anwar from its Rabita Committee owing to his “continued illness”.

"Mohammad Anwar is no more a member of the Rabita Committee. All workers are therefore advised not to establish contact with him on organisational matters," said the statement issued by the party.

While acknowledging Anwar’s services for the party, the statement said recently he could not show the usual interest in party affairs due to his prolonged illness.

“The MQM is currently the subject of political victimisation by the establishment, and in such circumstances all senior members of the Rabita Committee are not only needed to be present at all times but are also physically and mentally fit,” said the statement, adding Anwar's illness has also badly affected his memory.

During Sunday's meeting headed by Rabita Committee Deputy Convener Nadeem Nusrat, the party also decided to sack those members who have not been able to perform their duties well enough, and replace them with able and new individuals.

Read: Money laundering case: MQM leader Muhammad Anwar released on bail

Earlier in April, the 64-year-old MQM leader was arrested during a raid at his house by London’s counter-terrorism department.

London Metropolitan Police in a press release said they had detained Anwar on suspicion of money laundering.