Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb revealed on Monday that Army Chief General Asim Munir was unwilling to engage in direct discussions with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan, emphasizing that the military did not intend to interfere in the democratic processes of the country. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Aurangzeb stated that the ruling coalition, led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), was peacefully protesting at the Supreme Court against constitutional violations occurring in the country.
Aurangzeb highlighted that the discontent among their party workers was a result of recent decisions made by the Supreme Court. She assured that while they would express their protest, they would refrain from resorting to violence or damaging public property. Furthermore, she emphasized that elections would be held on time, as per the constitutional requirements.
Regarding Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9, the minister stated that the government had no ulterior motive in apprehending him. She clarified that the arrest was carried out by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) based on corruption charges against the PTI chairman. Aurangzeb noted that Imran Khan had failed to address the corruption cases against him, which primarily included allegations of foreign funding, the Al Qadir Trust, Toshakhana, and the Tyrian White case.
The minister accused Imran Khan of resorting to violence and labeled him a fascist who incited unrest in the country. She referred to the recent acts of vandalism, arson attacks, and damage to public and private properties, including ambulances, metro bus stations, and hospitals. Aurangzeb claimed that Imran Khan had strategically placed individuals at various installations, and the entire party leadership monitored the situation closely.
Responding to queries about the internet and social media blackout during the protests, Aurangzeb justified the government’s actions by citing Imran Khan’s incitement of violence. She denied any miscalculations on the government’s part and claimed that they had exercised restraint and handled the situation maturely, despite the presence of force.
On the economic front, Aurangzeb expressed confidence in Pakistan’s stability, stating that the government had successfully tackled economic challenges in the past. She asserted that the government possessed the will and experience to lead the country toward development.
In a separate statement, the minister confirmed the arrest of individuals involved in the desecration of martyrs’ memorials, attacks on government buildings, and the arson of mosques, schools, ambulances, and livestock. She responded to Imran Khan’s recent statement, branding him as the “mastermind of terrorists” and an enemy of the country. Aurangzeb declared that Imran Khan would not be allowed to reignite the fire he had ignited while comfortably residing in his Zaman Park residence.