- Javed Latif objects to restrictions on political parties, terming political entities assets to country
- Marri and Sherry Rehman voice concerns, say coalition partner did not taken into confidence
LAHORE: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar stated on Tuesday that no definitive decision has been made regarding a ban on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, emphasizing that such a decision would be taken only after consultation with coalition partners.
In a move seen as an effort to curb PTI’s influence, the federal government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, announced on Monday its intention to ban the party and initiate Article 6 proceedings against its founder Imran Khan, former president Dr. Arif Alvi, and former National Assembly deputy speaker Qasim Suri.
This announcement followed the Supreme Court’s verdict declaring the PTI eligible for reserved seats and Imran Khan and spouse’s acquittal in Iddat case, which seemed poised to bolster the party’s standing in the National Assembly.
The proposed ban has sparked widespread criticism, with various political factions labeling the move as undemocratic and potentially having severe consequences. Critics include leaders from PTI, PPP, Awami National Party, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam, and Jamaat-i-Islami.
Addressing the media in Lahore, DPM Dar clarified, “The information minister has stated that the decision [to ban PTI] will be made by the leadership after consulting our allies.”
Also read: ‘It is of great concern to us’: US reacts to govt decision to ban PTI
Dar asserted that the Election Commission of Pakistan had irrefutable evidence that PTI was a “foreign-funded party,” a reality that, in his view, cannot be denied.
He further explained, “Any decision [to ban PTI] will be carefully considered by the leadership and will involve consultation with our allies in accordance with the law and the Constitution. No action will be taken that violates legal or constitutional principles.”
Reiterating his stance, Dar confirmed that “no final decision has been made yet.”
He underscored the importance of national security, stating, “The safety and security of the country must be paramount, and any actions against them are unacceptable. The events of May 9 are intolerable, and those involved should be punished according to the law and the Constitution.”
Javed Latif advocates for a view of national political entities as assets to country
On the other hand, Javed Latif, a senior leader of the PML-N, raised strong objections to the imposition of restrictions on political parties.
Addressing a press conference at the party secretariat in Lahore on Tuesday, he emphasized that such measures do not address the root issues and could potentially weaken the nation’s fabric.
“Political parties are the backbone of the state, which strengthen rather than weakening it,” Latif stated, advocating for a view of national political entities as assets to the country.
During his speech, Latif criticized the ongoing political trials and the invisibility of certain influential forces. “In 75 years, our country has been progressively weakened. We’ve undergone numerous trials which haven’t benefitted us,” he explained, questioning the accountability repeatedly directed at political leaders and the mysterious return of 6,000 terrorists to the country.
He also pointed out the detrimental impact of silent compliances and unresolved internal conflicts within institutions. “When government actions aim to improve the nation’s welfare, they are often undermined by unseen forces,” he remarked, suggesting that these hidden influences are a greater threat to the state’s stability than the official political figures.
Latif called for an end to personal grudges between institutional leaders for the greater good of Pakistan, noting that such conflicts do not serve the national interest.
He emphasized that instead of being dragged into conflicts instigated by others, a united front in the political landscape is crucial.
‘Consultations with parliamentarians would be held regarding a ban on PTI’
Kh Asif emphasized mutual respect between the judiciary and politicians, “politicians should not be underestimated,” he asserted.
“The right to constitutional amendment lies with politicians and must not be usurped”, the defence insisted while addressing a presser in Sialkot.
Kh Asif stated that they respect the courts, and in return, the courts should also respect them.
He asserted that the right to constitutional amendment lies with politicians and must not be usurped. “Politicians should not be seen as weak. Why is contempt of court always directed at politicians?” he questioned.
The PML-N leader highlighted that consultations with parliamentarians would be held regarding a potential ban on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
It is pertinent to note that several political forces including PPP, JI, JUI-F and as of today, ANP have condemned the government’s decision to call a political party, mostly deeming it as “undemocratic”.
Asif described the events of May 9 as a direct attack on Pakistan’s existence, criticising PTI’s focus on power.
“Playing political games is damaging the country. PTI’s sole aim is to gain power,” he remarked.
The defence minister also highlighted the issue of terrorism, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), stating, “Terrorism is most prevalent in KP, yet the KP government is not prepared to participate in operations.”
Meanwhile, PML-N leader Talal Chaudhry clarified that the government did not ban a political party but rather filed a reference in the SC against a party involved in anti-state activities.
“We took this step after both the government and caretaker government deliberated on this option. Despite knowing we would face criticism, fulfilling our duty was more important,” Talal Ch stated.
PML-N leader reiterated that the government is acting in the interest of the state and is pursuing justice for the incidents of May 9 and foreign funding allegations against PTI.
Not taken into confidence: PPP
Meanwhile, Central Secretary Information of PPP Shazia Marri reacted to the decision on banning the PTI, stating that PPP was not taken into confidence regarding any such decision, adding that the party will discuss the government’s decision internally.
Marri emphasized that if PTI considers itself a political party, it must adopt a political demeanour.
On the other hand, Senior PPP leader Sherry Rehman also voiced surprise over the government’s decision, stating that the PPP had no prior indication of such a move. Sherry highlighted that the PPP had already expressed its concerns during the budget discussions, advising against unilateral decisions that could strain the coalition.
Sherry emphasized, “We had no indication that a ban on PTI was imminent. We stand by whatever decision our party makes, but I believe this will achieve nothing. You cannot suppress anything like this. The rule of law should prevail, and the public is already suffering under the current conditions.”
She further stressed the importance of collective wisdom and public consultation, urging all political parties to consider the country’s problems and propose solutions to overcome the challenges.
