Pakistan Ulema Council declares May 10 “Youm-e-Istekam Pakistan” day

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi designated May 10 as “Youm-e-Istekam Pakistan” (literally: Pakistan’s Stability Day) on Wednesday.

The move came following consultations with various religious schools of thought. The decision aims to “bolster” Pakistan’s reputation, particularly in response to the tumultuous events of May 9.

Read more: PM, other political figures react to May 9 incident

The May 9 incident refers to violent protests that erupted across the country last year following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. Protesters engaged in riots, targeting military installations and national memorials.

Expressing concern over the delayed court proceedings related to these events, the ulema counsil chairman stated that “justice” needed to prevail. He urged accountability for those “responsible”. He also called for a comprehensive investigation into the perpetrators and advocated for “political unity” to ensure peace and stability in the country.

The chairman questioned the judiciary’s approach and pointed to Pakistan’s progress in attracting investment from friendly countries.

The announcement to celebrate Youm-e-Istekam Pakistan on May 10 was made by the Pakistan Ulema Council. Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi stated that this decision followed consultations with all schools of thought.

Ashrafi talked about the need to strengthen Pakistan’s ‘reputation’ and political stability.

Despite a year passing since May 9 incident, court decisions are still pending.

Ashrafi also called for justice to be “served”, with the innocent declared innocent and the guilty punished. He expressed concern over the impact of the events on the youth and urged accountability for those responsible for inciting violence.

Read more: May 9 anniversary: no holiday tomorrow in Pakistan, says Attaullah Tarar

The uleman counsel chairman also called for an “investigation” into people spreading ‘hatred’ between the army and the nation. He alleged a conspiracy to pit the nation against the army on May 9, 2023, and called for those responsible to be identified.

Ashrafi stated that political stability was important for Pakistan’s progress and urged political parties to unite. He stated that punishing those responsible for the May 9 tragedy would prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.