Islamabad, November 24,2024- Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Atta Tarar, has claimed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders are voluntarily surrendering for arrest, adding that strict legal action will be taken against those attempting to disrupt peace in the federal capital.
Speaking to media in Islamabad on Sunday, the minister said, “Many PTI members do not want their leader to be released from jail. Several individuals, particularly at the local level, have contacted the administration requesting to be arrested voluntarily. Reports from across Punjab and Islamabad indicate that some people are willingly turning themselves in.”
Tarar assured that Islamabad’s peace would remain intact and that the government would not allow anyone to disturb the city’s stability. He added, “Several roads in the capital are open, while a few remain closed. PTI has no concrete demands; they only seek a deal or an NRO, which is not the government’s prerogative but that of the courts.”
The minister also highlighted the positive trajectory of the country’s economy, noting the imminent visit of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko and a high-profile delegation. He stated, “We will not permit any disruption that could derail the nation’s economic progress. Anyone reaching Islamabad with such intentions will be arrested. PTI is solely responsible for road closures and public inconvenience.”
Addressing PTI’s protests, Tarar questioned their motives, emphasizing that inflation is decreasing and citizens are being provided relief. He said, “Maintaining peace in the city is our responsibility, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is actively monitoring the situation to ensure robust security arrangements.”
He criticized PTI for spreading chaos in the past and noted internal divisions within the party. Referring to ongoing protests in Kurram, Tarar urged PTI leaders to focus on addressing issues in their provinces rather than attempting to destabilize the federal capital.
Welcoming the Belarusian delegation, Tarar remarked, “We will show them that we are a peaceful nation committed to stability and progress. PTI should first control the law-and-order situation in their provinces before attempting to derail the national economy.”
