Chairman Mohajir Qaumi Movement Afaq Ahmed urged PTI Chairman Imran Khan to act with prudence and reconsider the timing of the protest in light of the national interest
By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Afaq Ahmed, Chairman of the Mohajir Quami Movement (MQM), has expressed grave concerns over the escalating confrontation between law enforcement agencies and protesters from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), warning that the situation in Islamabad is becoming increasingly volatile. Speaking to reporters, Ahmed emphasized that while the right to peaceful protest is fundamental and enshrined in democracy, the nation’s collective interest must take precedence over any individual or political cause.
Highlighting the potentially damaging implications of the ongoing unrest, Afaq Ahmed recalled how a previous sit-in in Islamabad had led to the cancellation of a crucial state visit by the Chinese president. He warned that if the current law and order situation worsens, it could have far-reaching consequences, including jeopardizing Pakistan’s ability to host international events, such as the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting. “If India, or any other adversary, exploits this instability to push for relocating the SCO meeting outside Pakistan—similar to what happened with international cricket—it would be a disgrace for the country,” he said.
Afaq Ahmed urged PTI Chairman Imran Khan to act with prudence and reconsider the timing of the protest in light of the national interest. He proposed that the protest be postponed until after the SCO meeting, to ensure Pakistan’s international standing is not compromised. “If the protest is necessary, it can resume once the diplomatic event concludes, allowing the country to focus on securing its international reputation,” Ahmed suggested. He also called on the government to release political leaders and activists involved in the protest to foster an atmosphere conducive to dialogue and de-escalation.
