Islamabad, July 15, 2024 – The government on Monday announced its decision to move the Supreme Court of Pakistan to ban Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). This was disclosed by Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, during a news conference in Islamabad.
Minister Tarar explained that Article 17 of the Constitution empowers the federal government to ban a political party. He asserted that there is substantial evidence to justify banning PTI, citing the party’s alleged involvement in foreign funding, the violent events of May 9, its role in the resettlement of terrorists in Pakistan, the cipher controversy, and a resolution passed in the United States.
In addition to seeking a ban on PTI, Tarar announced that a reference will be filed against former President Arif Alvi, former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and former Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri. The reference concerns their alleged violations of the Constitution during the dissolution of assemblies following the no-confidence motion against the PTI government. The federal cabinet must approve the reference before it is forwarded to the Supreme Court.
Tarar highlighted that certain lobbies abroad promote anti-Pakistan agendas, support separatist movements, and conspire against the country’s security and institutions. The government, he said, has resolved to take strict legal actions against these entities, which could include blocking their passports and identity cards.
The Information Minister also revealed that the government and its allied parties have decided to file a review petition against the Supreme Court’s judgment in the reserved seats case. He argued that the judgment contains legal deficiencies and that the government has strong legal grounds to file the review. Tarar noted that PTI had not sought relief in this case.
Minister Tarar emphasized that the government will proceed with all these actions within the framework of the law and the Constitution. He stated that these measures aim to ensure that no one in the future dares to violate the Constitution, jeopardize national interests, or attack defense institutions.
The announcement marks a crucial juncture in Pakistan’s political landscape, potentially reshaping the future of one of the country’s major political parties. The government’s actions reflect its intent to uphold constitutional integrity and national security amidst growing political tensions.