Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Amir Sirajul Haq has called upon the government to provide updates on the investigation into the recent suicide attack targeting him. In a statement issued from Quetta, Haq emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to thoroughly investigate the attack and present the facts to the public. He expressed hope that the government will fulfill its duty in this regard.
On May 19, 2023, Haq narrowly escaped a bomb attack on his convoy in Zhob, Balochistan. While the JI leader remained unharmed, four individuals were injured, and his vehicle sustained partial damage. Law enforcement authorities swiftly declared the incident a suicide bombing, noting that the attacker’s body was discovered at the blast site.
The JI party confirmed Haq’s safety on its official Twitter account, attributing his survival to the grace of God. It was revealed that Haq was in Zhob to address a public meeting when the attack occurred. The party also reported that the alleged attacker died in the explosion.
In addition to addressing the assassination attempt, Haq discussed the current political landscape. He disclosed that his party has joined forces with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) Karachi wing with the intention of establishing a joint local government in the metropolis. Hafizur Rehman, JI Karachi chief, expressed confidence in their majority support for forming the local government, suggesting that the JI may secure the mayoral position while the PTI holds the deputy mayor position. Rehman further alleged that the PTI representatives were being unjustly detained by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which leads the provincial government in Sindh.
The recently held local body by-polls in 24 districts of Sindh have sparked controversy, with both the PTI and JI claiming election rigging and irregularities despite the PPP’s claim of victory. According to Radio Pakistan, the ruling PPP emerged as the largest party, securing seven out of the 11 union committees in Karachi, while JI won four union committees.
Commenting on the violent protests that occurred on May 9, Haq stated that political parties have condemned such acts and affirmed that they do not support politics expressed through rioting and vandalism. Haq emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to bring the perpetrators of these protests to justice. However, he clarified that he does not endorse military trials, emphasizing the government’s authority to engage in dialogue and negotiations.
Regarding foreign interference, Haq asserted that the United States has no right to intervene in Pakistan’s internal affairs. While acknowledging that neighbors may engage in discussions when conflicts arise within households, Haq firmly stated that America should not interfere in Pakistan’s matters.
Jamaat-i-Islami leader Sirajul Haq has urged the government to provide updates on the investigation into the assassination attempt against him. He emphasized the government’s responsibility to conduct a thorough inquiry and present the facts to the public. Haq also discussed his party’s collaboration with the PTI in forming a joint local government in Karachi. Furthermore, he condemned the violent protests on May 9 and expressed his opposition to politics manifested through rioting and vandalism. Haq stressed that the government should bring the perpetrators to justice while rejecting the notion of military trials. He also addressed foreign interference, specifically criticizing the United States for meddling in Pakistan’s internal affairs.