ISLAMABAD: A heavy contingent of police arrested former Foreign Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi from his Islamabad residence on Saturday.
The senior PTI leader’s arrest followed a press conference in which he announced his intention to move the Supreme Court regarding the potential delay in general elections.
Initially, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) spokesperson denied awareness of the arrest, but later, a spokesperson of Islamabad Police confirmed that the FIA had arrested Qureshi.
The FIA’s counter-terrorism wing registered a case against PTI Chairman Imran Khan related to a “missing cypher,” invoking serious legal provisions. The investigation revolves around allegations that during the PTI’s rule, Imran Khan and his associates, including Qureshi, disclosed classified information—a diplomatic cypher—without proper authorization, thereby jeopardizing national security.
Qureshi and PTI leader Asad Umar had previously appeared before a joint investigation team (JIT) led by the FIA, investigating the alleged manipulation of the classified diplomatic cypher.
Qureshi’s press conference
Meanwhile, during his earlier press conference, Qureshi said that grave concerns about the mounting pressure on PTI workers. He condemned the unwarranted harassment of party members, including instances involving the family of senior PTI member Usman Dar and the alleged mistreatment of PTI leader Mohsin Khan Leghari’s son. Qureshi called Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial and the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to take action to ensure fair play in politics.
Qureshi also criticized the inclusion of interim chief ministers in the Council of Common Interests (CCI) meeting, stating it was inappropriate. He emphasized that holding elections within a constitutional 90-day period was vital and mentioned the party’s intention to contest any potential delay in elections through legal means.
Addressing potential alliances, Qureshi indicated that discussions within the PTI’s core committee would take place regarding cooperation with other political parties in the upcoming general elections. He emphasizes the importance of ensuring that elections are held within a particular timeframe.
