PM Kakar vows to punish PTI Leadership
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Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has made a solemn commitment that those responsible for the May 9 attacks will not be spared, emphasizing that the law applies equally to all, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan and his supporters.
The interim prime minister conveyed this message during an address to students at Oxford University's Oxford Union and in discussions with Pakistani media upon concluding his rapid tour of the US and UK.
"We are dedicated to conducting fair elections, granting the PTI a level playing field in those elections. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has the authority to determine the election date, and we will adhere to it without question," PM Kakar stressed.
Regarding inquiries about several PTI leaders and the former prime minister facing serious charges of arson, terrorism, and the state of human rights and media freedoms, he noted that individuals in custody or facing prosecution have been involved in acts like vandalism, arson, and the destruction of public property.
Such actions, in any civilized society, would warrant legal charges. The caretaker prime minister reaffirmed that there would be no preferential treatment for Imran Khan and the PTI, emphasizing that the law applies impartially to all citizens.
He emphasized that no one is above the law, and political motives should not be allowed to manipulate the legal system. He expressed regret that the PTI did not choose to participate in parliamentary politics, stating, "Had they engaged in parliamentary politics, Imran Khan would have been the current opposition leader."
PM Kakar acknowledged that press freedom faces challenges in various countries, including India and Pakistan, but he assured that criticism is openly voiced in the Pakistani press. He emphasized that there is no effort to control or influence the media, asserting that media freedom in Pakistan is not being suppressed.
While acknowledging some civil and military imbalances in Pakistan, Premier Kakar argued that the widespread criticism of the Pakistan Army is disproportionate and often based on unverified information. He highlighted the prevalence of hearsay in contemporary criticism.
