Pakistan's Minister Attaullah Tarar Criticizes PTI's Actions Amid Imran Khan's Imprisonment

In Islamabad, Pakistan's Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, has claimed that many leaders and members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are voluntarily seeking arrest to avoid participating in a protest for the release of PTI founder Imran Khan from prison. Tarar alleged that PTI leadership is not genuinely interested in securing Khan's release and noted reports of PTI leaders surrendering to the police.

He highlighted internal divisions within PTI, particularly between Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Tarar suggested that the protest aimed at obtaining a concession for Khan's release, which the government cannot fulfill as it is a matter for the courts. He urged PTI to pursue legal avenues, as Khan faces multiple charges.

Tarar criticized PTI's past actions, referencing the 2014 sit-in that caused chaos, including setting fire to Parliament. He warned of strict action if PTI's protest threatened the economy, noting the arrival of a Belarusian delegation to discuss investments. He assured that the government would maintain order, with police deployed in Islamabad.

Pakistan's Minister for Petroleum, Musadik Malik, also criticized PTI leaders, questioning their commitment to Khan's release. He raised concerns about Bushra Bibi's political involvement, despite her claim of being apolitical, suggesting she might be influencing PTI's actions.