Rohri, Sindh, July 5, 2025: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday strongly refuted social media speculation suggesting that the army chief would replace President Asif Ali Zardari through a constitutional amendment, urging the public not to give credence to unfounded rumours.
Speaking to the media in Rohri during a visit to oversee Muharram security arrangements, Naqvi emphasized the need to set political differences aside during the sacred days of Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram), calling for national unity and religious harmony.
“Politics should be set aside for two days to maintain the sanctity and peace of Muharram,” Naqvi said, adding that more than one million mourners were participating in the Rohri procession — the largest and oldest of its kind in Pakistan.
He credited security agencies for ensuring peaceful Muharram processions across the country, commending their efforts in maintaining order during a time of heightened sensitivity.
When asked about rumours circulating online regarding President Zardari’s removal and the possible installation of the army chief as president, Naqvi dismissed the claims as “baseless social media speculation.”
“This is the first time in Pakistan’s history that the politicians, the government, and the military establishment are united,” he said. “Certain elements are disturbed by this unity — but let’s not politicize these sacred days.”
Commenting on internal security, the minister noted significant progress in counterterrorism efforts, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and warned that criminal gangs operating in the katcha areas would face the same fate as terrorists.
“The state will not tolerate terrorism or lawlessness in any form,” he said, affirming that joint operations involving law enforcement and security forces would continue nationwide.
Naqvi also praised the coordination between federal and provincial governments, police, and military in maintaining law and order during Muharram, reiterating his call for unity and restraint.
“Let’s come together in peace during these solemn days and avoid divisive rhetoric,” he concluded.
