Accountability
PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui, known for his close association with party leader Nawaz Sharif, has voiced opposition to Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s recent proposal to summon former army chief Gen (rtd) Qamar Javed Bajwa and ex-spymaster Lt Gen (rtd) Faiz Hameed before the National Assembly.
Siddiqui, speaking in his “personal capacity,” disagreed with Asif’s stance, suggesting that revisiting past controversies would only reopen old wounds, diverting attention from the urgent issues facing Pakistan.
Asif had announced his intention to introduce a resolution for summoning the retired generals during an appearance on a Dawn News TV show earlier this week.
He attributed responsibility for terrorist attacks in Pakistan to Gen Bajwa, Gen Hameed, and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, alleging their tenure facilitated the resurgence of TTP fighters.
However, Senator Siddiqui, a prominent figure within PML-N, expressed reservations about Asif’s approach.
He emphasized the need for parliament to prioritize addressing the country’s myriad challenges, such as constitutional and electoral reforms, rather than delving into past controversies.
Highlighting the ongoing accountability debate, Siddiqui cautioned against entangling politicians, generals, journalists, and others in a prolonged quagmire, stressing that resources should be directed towards resolving current issues.
Additionally, Siddiqui commended the recent Supreme Court decision to reinstate Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui, who was removed from his position as the IHC’s senior puisne judge in 2018.
The decision overturned Siddiqui’s dismissal over allegations of making controversial remarks about the establishment’s influence on judicial proceedings.
Addressing rumors about Nawaz Sharif’s potential relocation abroad, Siddiqui clarified that Sharif intends to travel overseas for family gatherings but has no plans for permanent residency outside Pakistan.
I am a dynamic professional, specializing in Peace and Conflict Studies, Conflict Management and Resolution, and International Relations. My expertise is particularly focused on South Asian Conflicts and the intricacies of the Indian Ocean and Asia Pacific Politics. With my skills as a Content Writer, I serve as a bridge between academia and the public, translating complex global issues into accessible narratives. My passion for fostering understanding and cooperation on the national and international stage drives me to make meaningful contributions to peace and global discourse.