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PML-F slams call for army deployment in Karachi
[Dawn] The Pakistain Mohammedan League Functional (PML-F) opposed on Saturday the Muttahida Qaumi Movement...English: United National Movement, generally known as MQM, is the 3rd largest political party and the largest secular political party in Pakistain with particular strength in Sindh. From 1992 to 1999, the MQM was the target of the Pak Army's Operation Cleanup leaving thousands of urdu speaking civilians dead... (MQM) demand for deployment of the army in Bloody Karachi ...formerly the capital of Pakistain, now merely its most important port and financial center. It is among the largest cities in the world, with a population of 18 million, most of whom hate each other and many of whom are armed and dangerous... for the restoration of peace and supported the federal government proposal for targeted operations in the city against all criminal gangs. Talking to news hounds after meeting his leaders and candidates in the recent by-elections, federal minister for overseas Paks and a big shot of the PML-F Pir Syed Sadaruddin Shah Rashdi said the demand for army deployment was against democratic norms and it could affect the overall recently completed democratic process. "The constitution allows army deployment in certain cases, but the situation in Karachi doesn't need to call the armed forces," he said. "If such a demand in Karachi meets success, it would set a precedent and the deteriorating situation in any part of the country would lead to a call for army deployment." Answering a question, he said he supported the proposal of the interior minister that called for targeted operations in Karachi which, he said, would be effective and result oriented. "We support the PML-N government and also their proposal for Karachi. The political parties should act in a way that may lead to a consensus policy on Karachi and our party believes that the police and Rangers have the capability to handle the situation," said Pir Rashdi. The PML-F reaction followed the trend of major parties opposing the MQM demand for army deployment as both the ruling parties at the centre and in the province called it an 'undemocratic' move and a 'condemnable call'. The Awami National Party, however, found it in line with the ANP's longstanding suggestion. Posted by: Fred 2013-09-02 |
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