As Pakistan continues its repatriation of aliens, caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti has said that foreigners living in the country are barred from participating in political activities in light of upcoming general elections slated for February 8, 2024.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Bugti warned that foreigners, regardless of the documents with which they entered Pakistan, will face deportation if found involved in political activities.
“People involved in political activities are being deported […] Whether it be Afghan refugees or citizens of any other country, will face deportation [if found in violation of directives],” the minister said.
The announcement comes as the interim government, citing security concerns, has initiated a nationwide campaign to expel millions of illegal foreigners living in the country.
Reiterating that only Pakistanis are allowed to engage in politics in the country, he underscored that even “registered” foreigners are prohibited from playing any role in politics. “[We] have identified 10 people who were involved in political activities,” the security czar said.
The minister also revealed that there is a security threat against Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman at a time when a general security threat persists against the country’s political leadership as a whole.
Addressing the issue of fake passports, Bugti said that the government is looking into more such cases and that those responsible for fake identity cards and passports will be held accountable.
