Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi Criticizes PTI’s Protest Strategy, Warns Against Disrupting Diplomatic Routes

Islamabad:In a strong statement, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi questioned the timing and strategy of the protests organized by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), particularly targeting the disruption of diplomatic routes. He asked why protests are planned when foreign delegations are arriving in the country, and why the routes of foreign guests are being blocked.

Speaking to the media, Naqvi stated, “The protestors should explain why they choose to call for protests during such critical times. Why block the paths of foreign dignitaries?” He also raised concerns about whether PTI’s protests are being orchestrated by Pakistanis or foreign nationals, pointing out that even last night, Afghan nationals were apprehended by authorities.

Naqvi further questioned the motives behind PTI’s regular protests, especially those led by Barrister Gohar. He stated, “If PTI didn’t schedule protests on specific days, doubts about their intentions wouldn’t arise. I had discussions with Barrister Gohar on how to bring stability to the situation, but such repeated actions seem to undermine those efforts.”

The Interior Minister also expressed his disapproval of PTI’s tactics of blocking key routes, especially when they impact foreign visitors. He stated, “It is one thing to protest, but blocking the paths of foreign guests is regrettable. Protesters have their strategies, and the government has its own. The safety of the public is our top priority.” He added that mobile services were operational but the internet was being restricted to maintain order.

Naqvi confirmed that the police had cleared key roads in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and emphasized that this time, the roads were not blocked as extensively as during previous protests. “We have made efforts to minimize the inconvenience caused to the citizens of Islamabad,” he said. He also confirmed that the police had cleared the routes used by foreign delegations to ensure smooth passage.

Regarding the situation in D-Chowk, Naqvi stated that police were closely monitoring the area, and anyone attempting to approach would be detained. “We will not allow any disruption at D-Chowk,” he added.

The Interior Minister also highlighted the economic damage caused by protests, stating, “Protests and sit-ins harm the country. After this protest, we will assess how much damage was done to the economy and business. Intimidation tactics will not benefit anyone.”

On the situation in Kurram, where ongoing violence has claimed lives, Naqvi expressed concern and said, “The federal government is doing all it can to address the situation in Kurram. It would have been better if those organizing protests were attending the funerals of the victims in Kurram instead.”

Naqvi also clarified that no protests were taking place in Punjab, and that demonstrators were primarily coming from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Regarding the Islamabad High Court’s directives, he mentioned that no response had been received from Barrister Gohar regarding the court’s orders.

The Minister’s comments reflect the government’s growing frustration with the political unrest and its impact on both domestic stability and international relations.