Islamabad:
The Minister of the Interior Mohin Naqvi repelled speculation on social networks on Thursday suggesting the ouster of President Asif Ali Zardari, calling them baseless.
In a press release published on his official X account (formerly Twitter), Naqvi defended the unity between the country’s political and military leaders.
He firmly denied any discussion or intention concerning the resignation of the president or a change of leadership.
He described rumors as a “malicious campaign” aimed at discrediting the president Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the chief of staff of the army (COAS) the Marshal General Asim Murnir, affirming that there is no truth to affirmations suggesting political rifts or changes in leadership.
“We are fully aware of who is behind the malicious campaign targeting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the chief of staff of the army,” Naqvi wrote on X.
Referring to speculations suggesting that President Zardari was invited to resign or that the COAS are looking for the presidency, the Minister of the Interior said “that there was no discussion, and there is no idea either”.
“I have categorically declared that there had been no discussion, and such an idea does not exist that the president was invited to resign or the co-who aspires to assume the presidency,” he said.
“The president of Pakistan has a strong and respectful relationship with the management of the armed forces,” said the minister.
He quoted President Zardari as having “clearly” declared: “I know who broadcasts these lies, why they do it and who benefits from this propaganda.”
Naqvi stressed that the “only objective” of the chief of the army, Marshal Asim Munnir, was the strength and stability of Pakistan, and “nothing else”.
“For people involved in this story, do everything you want in collaboration with hostile foreign agencies. As for us, we will do everything you need to make Pakistan strong again, Inshallah,” added Naqvi.
Naqvi made similar declarations to Sukkur last week, telling journalists not to believe in rumors on social networks. “Some people are disturbed by our unit.”
He stressed that the alignment between Pakistan’s political leadership, the military and the government is the reason for the growing propagation of disinformation. “For the first time, politicians, the government and the military establishment are on the same wavelength, and that bothers some people.”
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) also published a declaration to rest the speculation on the possible dismissal of President Zardari.
