Slams slogans such as ‘no Imran, no Pakistan’
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif delivered a strongly worded speech in the National Assembly where he criticized the recent actions and rhetoric of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, and questioned PTI’s democratic credentials and condemned the party for its approach to politics.
Asif also condemned inflammatory remarks allegedly made about mobilizing Pashtun forces to attack Punjab, stating, “What will be the result if someone says to invade Punjab?” He highlighted that such statements challenge the constitutional status and unity of the country.
The defense minister expressed shock over the attack on military installations on May 9, when military targets were selected for attacks across the country. “A defense can be claimed after desecration of military targets?” Asif asked, referring to the hypocrisy of those who desecrate yet offer prayers for the fallen.
He further criticized PTI’s response to its leader’s arrest, contrasting it with the imprisonment of his own leader, whose entire family was jailed. “Their chairman is arrested, while my leader was imprisoned along with his entire family,” he said, accusing PTI members of having “sold their conscience.”
During the speech, Asif sparred with PTI leader Ali Muhammad Khan, accusing him of hypocrisy and recalling the imposition of Article 6 on him by the PTI government. He also accused Khan of lying after reciting religious verses.
Khawaja Asif described a recent political rally as a “reaction” to what he referred to as a “black day” in Pakistan’s politics, which occurred two days prior.
Asif condemned opposition statements and actions, saying they provoked an inevitable response.
He criticised slogans such as “no Imran, no Pakistan,” claiming they provided justification for the recent political upheaval.
He further accused the opposition of undermining the country’s federation and repeatedly turning to the military for political support, citing their history with the establishment.
