BBC and International Media Confirm Gunfire at D-Chowk, Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar Questions PTI’s Response

Islamabad: Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, former senator and prominent political figure, has stated that there is no ambiguity regarding the gunfire at D-Chowk, Islamabad, following reports from the BBC and other international news agencies. Khokhar’s remarks came in response to the crackdown against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on November 26, during which violent clashes took place.
Khokhar emphasized that the confirmation from international media outlets had cleared any doubts about the use of firearms during the incident at D-Chowk. He criticized PTI leadership for their failure to provide a clear account of the events, particularly regarding the number of casualties and injuries. He pointed out that PTI has yet to hold a comprehensive press conference, with leaders offering conflicting statements. According to Khokhar, it was the party’s responsibility to present detailed facts and records of any casualties to the media and public.
Meanwhile, PTI’s spokesperson, Waqas Akram Sheikh, confirmed that at least 12 individuals had died during the protest. Speaking at a press conference alongside opposition leader Omar Ayub, Sheikh condemned the violence against peaceful protesters, asserting that the government was attempting to cover up evidence. He claimed that several people remain missing, and many were detained without information being shared. According to PTI, authorities delayed returning the bodies to the families for several days, which Sheikh described as a further attempt to suppress the truth.
Sheikh also criticized the government’s attempts to prevent hospitals from releasing casualty lists to the media, describing the actions as a violation of basic human rights. He questioned the legality of using live ammunition against unarmed citizens, emphasizing that peaceful protest is a constitutional right. The spokesperson further questioned the government’s actions, citing contradictory statements from ministers, and criticized the use of state machinery against citizens.
The controversy has raised concerns about the excessive use of force against protesters and the government’s handling of the situation, deepening political divides in the country.