Saturday, November 16, 2024 05:51 PM
Imran Khan urges citizens to join PTI rally in Lahore, warning against government actions undermining democracy and judiciary.
In a recent statement, Imran Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has called upon the citizens of Pakistan to rally in support of his party on September 21 in Lahore. This call to action comes amid rising tensions between the government and the judiciary, with Khan asserting that the current administration is attempting to undermine the apex court, which he believes threatens the very foundations of democracy and civil liberties in the country.
Speaking from Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, where he is currently incarcerated, Khan expressed his concerns regarding proposed amendments aimed at controlling the judiciary. He emphasized that these changes are not merely administrative but are designed to dismantle the judicial system itself. "The government is trying to destroy the Supreme Court of Pakistan," he stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Khan described the upcoming PTI rally as a historic event, urging supporters not to fear imprisonment for their beliefs. He reminded the public that protesting is a fundamental right, and if the government attempts to suppress the rally, PTI supporters will fill the jails in defiance. He criticized the government for its alleged plans to extend the term of Chief Justice Qazi Faiz Isa, suggesting that such actions are part of a broader strategy to manipulate the judiciary.
Furthermore, Khan pointed out that even children are aware of the government's intentions regarding these amendments, indicating a widespread understanding of the political climate. He criticized the government for making significant changes under the cover of darkness, arguing that such actions should be conducted transparently in broad daylight.
In his remarks, Khan also addressed the issue of electoral integrity, claiming that the fraudulent elections held on February 8 represent a severe violation of fundamental rights. He lamented that eight months have passed without any progress from the tribunal, attributing this stagnation to the protection afforded by the Chief Justice.
Highlighting the economic implications of the current political situation, Khan stated that the future of Pakistan hinges on attracting investment, particularly from overseas Pakistanis. He revealed that over 4,000 Pakistani companies have registered with the Dubai Chamber in the past six months, indicating a troubling trend of capital flight from the country. He expressed concern that doctors and other professionals are also leaving Pakistan, further exacerbating the nation’s challenges.
Khan concluded by asserting that genuine reforms can only be implemented by a government that has the people's mandate. He criticized the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for its focus on targeting opposition figures rather than addressing broader issues of corruption. He warned that if the Supreme Court is dismantled, Pakistan risks becoming a "banana republic," a term used to describe a politically unstable country dependent on foreign capital.
As the date of the rally approaches, the political landscape in Pakistan remains fraught with tension. The outcome of this event could have significant implications for the future of democracy and governance in the country. Citizens are urged to reflect on their rights and the importance of standing up for them, as the actions taken in the coming days may shape the trajectory of Pakistan for years to come.