ISLAMABAD: Thirteen-party alliance of government in a joint statement categorically rejected Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s demand for early elections and said that other appointments including Army Chief are authority of Prime Minister.

Joint statement stated that allied parties will decide regarding next general elections and no group will be allowed to impose a decision based on power. Those who take law into their hands will be dealt according to Constitution and law and Imran Khan’s demand for early elections is categorically rejected.

Declaration also strongly condemned PTI Chairman’s statement and allegations regarding former President Asif Ali Zardari and former PM Nawaz Sharif.

It said, “Prime Minister will decide on appointment of new Army Chief as per country’s law, adding that appointment would not be made on threat, pressure and dictation of ‘foreign funded fitna’.” Targeting Army Chief, leadership and officers of intelligence and Chief Election Commissioner is aimed blackmailing but conspiracy against heads of state institutions will be foiled.

“Person deprived of power is targeting national institutions under a well-thought-out agenda and campaign against martyrs of Pakistan Army, statements rebellion in army are tantamount to anti-nationalism,” statement added.

Joint statement added that Constitution, democracy and system will not be allowed to be enslaved on basis of bullying and intimidation, adding that economy of country and rehabilitation of flood victims is first national priority at present.

Referring to Khan, the statement further added that "a person deprived of power is targeting national institutions under a deliberate agenda."

"Actions like dirty campaigns against the martyrs of the Pakistan Army, and encouragement of rebellion in the army are tantamount to anti-nationalism which will be dealt with according to the Constitution and law." The ruling parties added that the Constitution, democracy, and system will not be allowed to be enslaved on the basis of bullying and intimidation.

The statement also clarified that the economy of the country and the rehabilitation of the flood victims is the top national priority at this time, on which there will be no compromise. "The government, institutions, and the people of Pakistan agree that political instability will not be allowed to derail the economy, while access to resources for flood victims will not be affected in any way."

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 18 2022

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