In Islamabad, Umar Ayub, the Central General Secretary of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and designated opposition leader in the National Assembly, has cautioned against the crackdown on PTI members, emphasizing the need to scrutinize the accounts of various officials, including the Inspectors General (IGs) of Punjab and Islamabad, in parliamentary committees.
Addressing the media in Islamabad regarding the recent arrests of PTI leaders and activists, Ayub highlighted the party’s ongoing struggle against election irregularities, stating that human rights violations against PTI workers are rampant in Pakistan. He urged the Supreme Court to take notice of these violations.
Ayub condemned the peaceful protests held across the country, particularly in Punjab, where terrorism charges were allegedly pressed against PTI members, resulting in over 100 arrests. He accused the police of bias towards the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and criticized the IGs for allegedly aligning with the ruling party.
In reference to recent incidents in Islamabad involving PTI members, Ayub demanded transparency, asserting that officials such as the IG, SSP, and DC should be held accountable for their actions. He pledged to examine their accounts through the Public Accounts Committee in both National and Provincial Assemblies.
Expressing concern over the blocking of social media platforms, Ayub urged for their reopening to ensure the dissemination of information to Pakistan’s youth.
Ayub also reiterated PTI’s commitment to securing the release of imprisoned members, including party leader Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi. He rejected any perception of weakness associated with Bushra Bibi’s situation and questioned Asif Zardari’s fitness for leadership due to health concerns, advising him to prioritize treatment over political reconciliation.