Shaukat says decision on civil disobedience rests with Imran

PESHAWAR: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Shaukat Yousafzai on Sunday welcomed the formation of a government committee for negotiations but said that decision about the civil disobedience movement rested with PTI founder Imran Khan.

In a video statement, he said that the deadline for the civil disobedience movement was set for Sunday, but with the formation of the government’s committee, Imran Khan will make the final decision regarding its postponement.

He criticized government ministers for making statements that appeared to preempt judicial decisions, saying such actions undermined the judiciary. “Ministers issuing inappropriate remarks before judicial rulings raise questions about the independence of the judicial system,” he said.

He urged the government to stop the ministers from issuing provocative statements, warning of a response from PTI if such behaviour continued.Shaukat Yousafzai said that achieving political stability required adherence to the Constitution, the rule of law, and justice. He also criticized the trial of civilians in military courts and termed it a dangerous precedent.

Referring to the aftermath of the May 9 incidents, the PTI leader alleged that justice was not served in the sentencing of the accused. “Statements by ministers before court decisions give the impression that the verdicts are being dictated by others, not the courts,” he said, adding that the government needs to recognize that repression, arrests, and arrogance will not resolve issues.

Shaukat Yousafzai urged federal ministers to avoid making fiery remarks to ensure the success of negotiations.He condemned the recent attack in South Waziristan, expressing solidarity with the security forces. “Our security forces have made sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, and the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with them in this battle,” he said.