POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Interior Minister Warns Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM of Strict Action Amid Protest Violence

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi addresses escalating violence during PTI protests, warning Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur of strict consequences.
2024-10-05
Interior Minister Warns Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM of Strict Action Amid Protest Violence

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued a strong warning to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, amidst escalating violence during ongoing protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Speaking to media representatives, Naqvi condemned the actions of PTI supporters, stating that they have crossed "all lines," and threatened strict action if such behavior continues.

 

The minister reported that the PTI convoy has been involved in firing and shelling against police officers, resulting in injuries to approximately 80 law enforcement officials. Naqvi raised concerns about the nature of the protests, questioning the origins of the tear gas used against police and the presence of Afghan nationals among the demonstrators.

 

In the past 24 hours, authorities have arrested 120 Afghan citizens in connection with the protests, prompting further questions about their involvement. "If there is a protest, where are the Afghan citizens coming from?" Naqvi asked, emphasizing the need for accountability in the situation. He explicitly pointed to Chief Minister Gandapur as being responsible for the unrest, stating, "KP is crossing all lines, if they cross any more line, strict action will be taken."

 

Naqvi expressed his belief that the PTI's intentions were not transparent and seemed to suggest ulterior motives. He stated, "We will not allow the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting to be sabotaged," referring to the high-profile event that the government is keen to protect from any disruptions.

 

The Interior Minister also mentioned alarming evidence that residents of Bannu had been instructed to arm themselves, further escalating concerns about the potential for violence. "There cannot be any kind of negotiations on speaking out," Naqvi asserted, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

 

When questioned about the potential imposition of emergency measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Naqvi indicated that discussions were ongoing between the president and prime minister, suggesting that a strategic response would be formulated in due course.

 

As the political climate remains tense, the government is grappling with how to manage the situation effectively while ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. The increasing violence at protests underscores the deepening divisions within the political landscape of Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.