Government to ban PTI; appeal against ‘reserved seats’ verdict

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, delivered a scathing critique of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and announced plans for a legal review of recent decisions concerning reserved parliamentary seats.

Addressing the media on Monday afternoon, Tarar stated, “Our wisdom was seen as weakness, and to a culture of abuse was promoted.” He condemned the political use of religion, noting that such tactics have been employed for years and are detrimental to the country’s progress.

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Tarar highlighted a trend, beginning from the 2014 sit-ins, that has nurtured a particular mindset. He questioned PTI leaders’ actions, asking, “Why were they dining with Israeli businessmen while Palestine was under attack?” He asserted that such contradictions must end for the nation’s sake, declaring, “If we want to develop, it is clear that Pakistan and PTI cannot go together.”

The minister announced that the ruling and coalition parties have decided to file a review appeal against the Supreme Court’s verdict on reserved seats. He stressed that women and minority members, who have felt unheard, believe this review is necessary.

The Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) and its allies will jointly submit this petition, questioning whether parliament has the authority to amend the constitution and whether a political party should be granted rights it does not deserve.

Tarar accused PTI of receiving funding from questionable sources, for which there is evidence available as well. He challenged PTI’s six-year effort to obtain a stay order against the foreign funding decision. Addressing PTI leadership, he said, “You attacked the national interest on May 9. Your family members were involved; your nephew was setting uniforms on fire. You promoted anarchy in the country,” he said.

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Tarar alleged that PTI facilitated the return of the Taliban before the siege. He condemned PTI for bringing terrorists into settled areas and attacking key military establishments, including the GHQ and Corps Commander House. He questioned, “Who gave you the authority to settle the Taliban here? You halted the National Action Plan.”

The information minister also informed that the federal government is taking action to ban PTI. “Pakistan and PTI cannot go together,” Tarar said. The government has decided to file a case against Imran Khan, along with former president Arif Alvi, and former deputy speaker Qasim Suri, he added.

After the approval of the federal cabinet against these three persons, this reference will be sent to the Supreme Court, he said.