Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Murtaza Solangi, has provided reassurances that there are no restrictions on the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and clarified that announcing the election date is not within the interim government’s mandate.
Solangi expressed confidence in the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), emphasizing its status as an autonomous constitutional body responsible for conducting elections. He confirmed that the elections will be held as per the date announced by the ECP.
The information minister emphasized that all registered political parties, including PTI, have equal opportunities. He stated that political parties and their leadership have the freedom to express their opinions on important issues, reiterating, “There are no restrictions on PTI as a political party.”
Solangi highlighted the freedom enjoyed by the media in Pakistan and the independence of the courts. He assured that the caretaker government, in collaboration with the ECP, will ensure equal opportunities for all political parties in the upcoming elections.
Regarding the return of Nawaz Sharif on October 21, the caretaker information minister stressed that the interim setup is not involved in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo’s return. Nawaz Sharif has been residing in London since November 2019 due to health reasons and was disqualified for life in 2017 by the Supreme Court.
Solangi affirmed that Nawaz’s return will be handled according to the law and the Constitution, emphasizing that Nawaz did not flee the country illegally.
Addressing the issue of expelling illegal foreigners residing in Pakistan, the information minister noted that no other country in the world has hosted as many refugees over the past four decades as Pakistan. He emphasized the need for documented entry and residence, as well as the prevention of fake passports and identity cards.
Solangi stated that illegal foreigners residing in the country should voluntarily leave by October 31. After this deadline, they will be forcibly evicted, with the primary aim being the defense of the state and the protection of citizens and national borders.
Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar-led caretaker government had previously announced its decision to expel 1.1 million foreigners illegally residing in Pakistan.
On the issue of privatization, the information minister clarified that the process was initiated by the previous parliament and its elected government, rather than the caretaker government.
