My father and brother had no role in May 9 riots: Mehar Bano Qureshi

ISLAMABAD:  Mehar Bano Qureshi, the daughter of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice-Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi, has said that her father and brother had no role in the May 9 incident.

In an interview on HUM TV’s News Line, she addressed various topics, expressing her views on the May 9 incident and outlining her political stance.

Talking about the May 9 riots, she stated that everyone had strongly condemned the incident. She, however, emphasized the need to investigate and reach the responsible parties through a transparent inquiry.

“Using it as a political tool for revenge is not something we should indulge in,” Mehar Bano stressed during the interview. She urged the importance of conducting a thorough investigation, ensuring accountability but steering clear of exploiting the situation for political gains.

Furthermore, she highlighted the significance of safeguarding national institutions and steering clear of causing harm to them. She emphasized that the country belonged to everyone, and her family, including her father and brother, had no role in the May 9 incident.

Mehar Bano Qureshi acknowledged the presence of politicians in Pakistan who adhere to principles. She underscored the need for politicians committed to principles and expressed hope for such leaders to emerge.

“My father has never resisted during arrests,” she stated. Mehar Bano Qureshi revealed that they learned about the additional FIRs against Shah Mahmood Qureshi during their appearance at the judicial complex.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi has consistently advocated for progress through dialogue in politics, according to her. She expressed the hope that everyone would be granted permission to participate in elections. However, if denied, they would challenge the decision in the High Court.

While commenting on the political landscape, she characterized the PTI as a party fighting for principles and the rights of urban dwellers.

“We don’t want to form alliances with anyone. The Pakistan People’s Party has just announced its election manifesto, but PTI has already initiated health cards and Ehsaas programmes,” she added.

Mehar Bano Qureshi concluded the interview by urging an end to the ongoing political turmoil and advocating for respectful engagement with political opponents, emphasizing the need to break free from the chains of political vendettas.