Says enemies of state working to spread hatred, instability in Pakistan; Economy and national security must progress together
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called for the formation of a specialised Anti-Riots Force, equipped with modern tools and international-level training, to safeguard public order in Islamabad and other cities.
In a meeting on the law-and-order situation, Shehbaz Sharif addressed the ongoing security challenges posed by protests.
The Prime Minister was briefed on the violent protests that led to attacks on public property, as well as on police and Rangers personnel. He condemned the actions of those behind the protests, stating that they were “caught by the law” for their involvement in corruption and attempts to destabilise the country.
He criticised efforts to spread chaos and anarchy across Pakistan, particularly the marches towards Islamabad. “Instead of following the legal route, attempts were made to create unrest by marching on Islamabad,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the toll on security forces during the unrest, with personnel both injured and martyred in the line of duty. “These so-called revolutionaries are working to destroy and destabilise our country,” he remarked. He called for immediate legal action against the protestors who marched on Islamabad.
Shehbaz Sharif also pointed out the economic impact of the protests, stating that the country had suffered billions of rupees in losses. “As soon as the disruptive group dispersed, the stock exchange crossed 100,000 points,” he noted, linking the end of the protests with a positive market shift.
The Prime Minister expressed his admiration for the sacrifices made by security forces, stating that both he and the nation paid tribute to the martyred personnel. “This gang of anarchists and their leaders are directly responsible for the economic damage to Pakistan,” he said.
In response to future threats, Shehbaz Sharif ordered the formulation of a comprehensive strategy to prevent any further marches in Islamabad or elsewhere for personal or political gain. He also called for a stronger prosecution system to address the legal consequences of the protests and ensure accountability for those responsible for inciting unrest.
“The individuals who incited violence and chaos during these recent events must be brought to justice,” the Prime Minister concluded.
Meanwhile, Speaking during a security workshop at the National Defence University, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan’s national security is directly linked to its economy, stressing that recent political unrest and protests had significantly harmed the country’s economic stability.
He pointed to the damage caused by protests, which included a sharp decline in the stock market.
He emphasised that the economy and national security must progress together, and the country was gradually moving in the right direction despite setbacks.
“First of all, congratulations to everyone, as our stock exchange has surpassed 100,000 points today,” said PM Shehbaz, acknowledging that the achievement was the result of collective efforts. “This is not my success or the finance minister’s, but the hard work of the entire team.”
PM Shehbaz also warned of the growing threat from internal and external elements working to destabilise Pakistan, describing the actions of those inciting violence as attempts to create chaos.
