Pakistan braced for tension on the anniversary of last year's violence instigated by imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan's supporters. The turmoil on May 9, 2023, saw Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party followers wreaking havoc on military and government targets in response to Khan's arrest over alleged corruption charges.
PTI activists vandalized numerous military sites, including Lahore's Jinnah House, Mianwali Airbase, and the ISI building in Faisalabad. Notably, the mob targeted the Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi for the first time.
On this anniversary, PTI leaders denounced the violence, accusing opponents of orchestrating it as part of a "false flag operation" against Khan and the party. Despite government crackdowns, PTI planned "peaceful protests" across Pakistan.
In response to potential unrest, authorities in Islamabad banned all gatherings. President Zardari condemned last year's violence, labeling it a politically motivated rampage that tarnished Pakistan's image and served its enemies' interests. He stressed the importance of democratic values, urging responsible exercise of assembly and expression rights.
Zardari called for unity among political parties, media, and civil society to strengthen democracy and counter disinformation campaigns against state institutions. He praised Pakistan's armed forces and institutions while emphasizing accountability for those behind the May 9 violence.
Following last year's events, Khan and many PTI members face multiple legal cases, including charges under the Official Secrets Act. Zardari lamented such actions hindering national progress and urged harnessing youth potential positively.
In conclusion, Zardari advocated for collective efforts to overcome socio-economic challenges, end political polarization, and promote a brighter future for Pakistan.
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