PM Shehbaz vows ‘tough decisions’ to safeguard Pakistan’s stability amid PTI protests

By DTD- On Nov 27, 2024

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to take “tough measures” to prevent future disruptions and protect Pakistan’s stability following the recent unrest in Islamabad. In an address to the federal cabinet on Wednesday, he emphasized the importance of unity between the civilian leadership and the military, declaring, “We and the army are one soul in two forms,” highlighting the strong cooperation between the government and Pakistan’s armed forces.

Sharif sharply criticized the individuals behind the protests that had led to widespread chaos in the capital. Describing the demonstrations as a form of sabotage, he warned, “The hand that seeks to sacrifice Pakistan will be broken,” asserting that his government would take necessary steps to eliminate sedition and political instability. “There is no room for sedition and sabotage in politics,” he declared, referring to the protests as part of a conspiracy that must be ended at all costs.

The Prime Minister condemned the severe disruptions caused by the protests, which brought business operations to a halt and led to chaos in daily life. He pointed to the significant financial impact, citing a dramatic 4,000-point drop in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSE) in just one day, following the protests. “A decision must be made: improve the economy or face sit-ins,” he stated, underlining the damaging effects these disruptions have on Pakistan’s economic recovery.

Sharif praised the efforts of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies in quelling the protests, stressing their role in restoring order and thwarting attempts to “attack Islamabad.” He also noted the failure of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government, accusing them of neglecting critical security responsibilities in areas like Parachinar and Kurram, while instead engaging in protests.

Further, the Prime Minister expressed frustration over the slow legal action against those responsible for the violent May 9 riots, stressing that timely justice would have prevented the current unrest. “If the courts had punished the culprits on time, we would not have seen this day,” he said, calling for accountability to ensure such actions do not threaten Pakistan’s stability again.

In conclusion, Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his government’s commitment to Pakistan’s development, stating that rebellion and anarchy had been quelled “by the grace of Allah.” He emphasized the importance of making decisions that prioritize the country’s economic recovery and national stability, warning that the government would not tolerate actions that threaten Pakistan’s future. “We will not allow Pakistan to be sacrificed under any circumstances,” he stated resolutely.