Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned that no one would be allowed to storm Islamabad under any circumstances, making it clear that if anyone attempted to come to Islamabad tomorrow, they should not complain afterwards.
During a press conference in Islamabad, Mohsin Naqvi said that if anyone tries to storm the city, no leniency or concession will be shown. The police are fully prepared, and there will be no relaxation in security measures. Paramilitary forces, Rangers, and the Army have been called in. He urged the leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to reconsider their protest call, stating that they have until tomorrow to think it over.
He added that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit holds immense importance for Pakistan. “As Pakistanis, you may engage in politics, but please refrain until the 17th. Even Maulana Fazlur Rehman has suggested postponing the protest. After several years, it’s an honor to host such heads of state in Pakistan. Political workers and ordinary citizens should think ten times before protesting tomorrow; the day is crucial for the country.”
Mohsin Naqvi further stated that the Prime Minister of Malaysia has arrived, followed by a Saudi delegation and then the Prime Minister of China. In such circumstances, calling for a protest tomorrow is inappropriate. PTI is a political party of Pakistan, not a foreign entity.
Naqvi said “It’s not suitable to plan a storming of Islamabad while heads of state are present. We have made all necessary arrangements, and there will be no leniency or second thoughts.”
He also mentioned that under a new law, a designated location has been set for protests. Even a minor incident will have lifelong repercussions, and anyone involved should not expect any leniency.
“This is a very thin line for us, and I apologize to the public in advance. We are compelled to act strictly, whether people like it or not. We cannot afford any disruption,” said Naqvi.