ISLAMABAD – The Federal Minister for Pakistan Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique

has responded back to the press conference of the Director General ISPR

calling his statement irresponsible and unwarranted behaviour.

He said on Thursday that he never engaged in irresponsible or

unconstitutional behaviour.

Reacting to the press conference of ISPR DG Major General Asif Ghafoor on

Thursday, the federal minister said that he can never even imagine of

targeting the armed forces or the system. He told that he is a responsible

person who never adopted irresponsible behaviour.

Rafique further clarified his position that he adopted the narrative of

unity and homogeneity between the national institutions during the speech

to commemorate his father’s death anniversary. “It is not appropriate to

build opinion on a few words from the 27-minute speech,” he noted,

stressing that his speech was presented beyond the true meaning.

The Railways Minister expressed disappointment over certain sections that

are “spreading misunderstandings between institutions”. He claimed of

playing a silent role for the establishment of harmony between

institutions, adding that they inform the respective authorities whenever

there are complaints.

He acknowledged ISPR DG of being a positive man, saying that his response

brought disappointment. Rafique said that the media should not only discuss

the matter but also show the entire speech.

While answering a question on the Minister for Railways’ remarks. DG ISPR

said that the statement was extremely irresponsible and unwarranted as it

targets the chain of command. The Pakistan Army is a disciplined

institution and the army chief’s orders are followed without question, he

added. Ghafoor said, “The army takes pride in its discipline. These remarks

should not have been made.”