Presidential Removal Rumors Dismissed by Interior Minister
Mohsin Naqvi Denounces Social Media Speculation Amid Political Stability
Amidst swirling rumors of presidential removal, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has firmly refuted claims circulating on social media regarding President Asif Ali Zardari‘s ouster and a potential 27th constitutional amendment.
Minister’s Statement
During a media address in Rohri on the eve of Ashura, Naqvi addressed these reports directly, urging caution against heeding unsubstantiated social media narratives. He also requested media outlets to avoid political conjecture out of respect for the Ashura period.
According to a recent report, disinformation on social media platforms costs the global economy an estimated $78 billion annually (Brookings, 2022).
“Some people are bothered as for the first time, politicians, government, and military establishment are on the same page. Those elements are spreading misleading narratives,”
Naqvi stated, suggesting an orchestrated effort to destabilize the current political harmony.
PML-N’s Position
Naqvi‘s statement follows the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)’s attainment of a simple majority in the National Assembly, bolstered by the Election Commission of Pakistan’s reinstatement of reserved seats after a Constitutional Bench verdict. This shift has increased the ruling alliance’s strength from 218 to 235 members, securing them a two-thirds majority.
Coalition Stability
Echoing sentiments of unity, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar affirmed that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) remains a crucial ally to the PML-N, despite the latter’s increased majority. Dar emphasized the PPP’s indispensable support in forming the government post-2024 general elections.
“PPP is and will remain our coalition partner,”
said the deputy prime minister.
Speaking to journalists at Data Darbar shrine in Lahore, Dar highlighted the PPP’s steadfast support during challenging times, assuring that the Nawaz Sharif-led party would reciprocate during periods of stability.
Dar also clarified that the PPP has not requested any ministerial positions from the PML-N.
