Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz condemned May 9, 2023 violent incidents, describing them as part of premeditated conspiracy aimed at destabilizing state.

She claimed that finally, “Mastermind” behind events-in reference to PTI founder Imran Khan had confessed to planning and facilitating attacks, adding that his party was an “Anarchist group” rather than political party whose aim is to damage state through malicious designs.  She alleged that Zaman Park served as training ground for terrorist activities. “Training was given to make petrol bombs and to attack state,” she said, highlighting that planning of May 9, 2023 attacks was carried out during four months (when prominent figure feigned injury) with plaster cast on their leg. Maryam asked what kind of peaceful protests were staged on May 9, where over 200 military installations were attacked, air force planes were set on fire, corps commander houses were burnt and memorials of martyrs were desecrated.

“What peaceful protest it was, in which more than 200 military installations were attacked,” she remarked sarcastically. She alleged that attacking martyrs’ memorials and forcing Pakistan towards default were all part of conspiracy.  Emphasising need for action, Maryam said, “It is requirement of national interest to take action in presence of evidence and proof.” She connected events to larger conspiracy aimed at defaulting Pakistan and alienating friendly countries, including China.  CM recalled past instances of unrest and attacks attributed to same group, such as 2014 attacks on Parliament House, PTV and Prime Minister House. She cited incidents of violence against police and disruptions caused by sit-ins, including prevention of Chinese president’s visit to Pakistan.