Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Accuses Government of Covering Up Protester Deaths in Islamabad
Islamabad:Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has strongly criticized the government for denying the deaths of protesters during recent unrest in Islamabad. Speaking in an interview with a private TV channel, Abbasi asserted that he could personally testify to the martyrdom of three individuals who lost their lives in the protest, one of whom was from his constituency, another from Mardan, and the third in Islamabad.
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader accused the government of arrogance, claiming they were falsely asserting that no fatalities occurred during the protests. “You fired bullets, people died, and you must accept that fact,” Abbasi stated, adding that the government’s stance was in stark contrast to the reality on the ground.
Abbasi also condemned the use of force against protesters, particularly the shooting at night when the situation was murky. “What was the purpose of shooting in the darkness of night? Was there any attack by the protesters? Are there any videos showing an assault on the police or the authorities?” he questioned.
The former Prime Minister emphasized that even shooting at protesters during daylight would be unacceptable, let alone in the cover of night with the lights turned off. He expressed concern over the negative impact this violence could have on the public perception of both the government and the country’s political climate.
Abbasi further called on the government to stop denying the deaths and present medical records from hospitals, along with allowing doctors to speak freely about the casualties. “The government needs to face the reality and stop hiding the truth,” he concluded.
His remarks come amid rising political tensions in Pakistan, as the opposition parties continue to challenge the current government over its handling of recent protests and its broader political strategy.
