Constitutional Limits
LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Omar Ayub called on Saturday for state institutions, including the armed forces and intelligence agencies, to adhere strictly to their constitutional limits.
Ayub emphasized that both institutions and politicians must operate within their defined parameters to ensure the stability and integrity of the state.
Speaking to the media in Lahore, Ayub outlined his position, stating, “Politicians are also bound to perform their duties within the constitutional framework.”
His comments come amidst ongoing political turmoil in Pakistan, exacerbated by the PTI’s challenges following the unrest on May 9, 2023.
On that day, protests erupted after the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan, leading to violent clashes and attacks on various state installations, including the Corps Commander House in Lahore.
Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year, recently indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue within the bounds of the Constitution.
He also expressed readiness to apologize if it is proven that PTI supporters were responsible for the disturbances on May 9.
Khan has previously denounced accusations against PTI workers, asserting that they were wrongfully labeled “terrorists” for participating in what was intended to be a peaceful protest.
In his media briefing, Ayub also addressed the issue of the PTI founder’s legal strategy, revealing that Khan intends to petition the court for access to CCTV footage from the May 9 protests.
He reiterated that there had been no backroom deals involving PTI, and criticized the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) for allegedly trying to sow discord between the public and the military.
Ayub further commented on the political landscape, asserting that the current year is crucial for new elections and stressing the need for an independent Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
He echoed sentiments expressed by Khan, suggesting that the PML-N government is facing imminent downfall and failing to grasp the gravity of the situation.
In a related statement, PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi, speaking from Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat jail, highlighted the extensive legal challenges faced by PTI members since May 9.
Qureshi, who has been a politician for 40 years, pointed out the unprecedented number of cases filed against him in the past year, contrasting it with his previous record of no cases for the preceding 39 years.
He argued that acknowledging Imran Khan’s role in Pakistani politics is essential for achieving national stability and called for an end to the derogatory labeling of political opponents as “traitors,” a practice he criticized as divisive and counterproductive.
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