PTI condemns police violence on peaceful protesters, demands accountability

Waqas demands immediate release of Imran Khan capable of pulling country out of crisis

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) strongly condemned the violent use of force and direct firing against peaceful protesters in Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore, resulting in the loss of precious lives and injuries to many, and demanded the immediate release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is the only unifying political force capable of guiding the country through the ongoing national and international crises.

In a strongly-worded statement, PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram expressed deep concern over police using direct firing and teargas against peaceful protesters in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Gilgit-Baltistan, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries to several others. He emphasized that peaceful citizens taking to the streets to express their grievances is a constitutional right, while the indiscriminate and inhumane use of force against protesters is unacceptable in any civilized society.

PTI CIS further stressed that there was no genuine case against Imran Khan, as his imprisonment was based on fabricated, politically motivated, and vendetta-driven charges. Therefore, he said it is high time that he be released immediately so that the country may have the leadership required to restore stability, unity, and public trust.

Sheikh Waqas highlighted that the nation has been pushed into turmoil by short-sighted, self-centered, and myopic leadership, making Imran Khan the sole figure capable of steering the country out of this crisis.

“We express our profound grief over the loss of precious human lives in these violent incidents in Karachi. Targeting peaceful protesters with bullets and the excessive use of state power is a clear indication of governmental failure and incompetence,” he added.

He continued, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Waqas emphasized that if the Sindh government and other authorities had fulfilled their responsibilities, these precious lives would not have been lost. He asserted that PTI demands a transparent investigation into these incidents and that those who directly fired on protesters be brought to justice under the strictest provisions of the law.

PTI CIS noted that the party continues to closely monitor unrest and tension across the country. “We appeal to the public to refrain from damaging national property or taking the law into their own hands while expressing their emotions, as such acts undermine the objectives of the movement,” he added. He also urged the state to act with restraint, patience, and to prioritize the protection of citizens’ lives and property. “May Allah protect our country from further turmoil and crises and ensure peace and stability in our beloved homeland. Ameen,” he concluded.