Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Murtaza Solangi has called on President Dr. Arif Alvi to uphold his constitutional role rather than making statements that seemingly align with a specific political party’s narrative.
In a televised Current Affairs program, Solangi asserted that the President should refrain from expressing bias towards any particular political party, specifically mentioning the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Solangi highlighted that the PTI, being a registered political party, has numerous spokespersons advocating for its positions through various channels. He emphasized the need for the President to avoid statements that could be perceived as favoritism towards a specific political entity.
Regarding President Alvi’s letter to Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, expressing concerns about the absence of a level-playing field, Solangi questioned the President’s past actions during the PTI’s government. He recalled instances of human rights violations, including journalist abductions, attacks, arrests of opposition leaders on false charges, and media censorship during the PTI’s tenure.
Solangi further criticized the alleged illegal dissolution of the National Assembly to prevent a no-confidence motion against former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He urged President Alvi, as the symbolic figure of the federation, to fulfill his constitutional responsibilities diligently.
Pointing to the constitutional role of the President as the supreme commander of the armed forces, Solangi questioned the lack of action when sensitive installations were attacked on May 9. He challenged the President on the number of letters written addressing such security concerns.
Responding to a query directed at PTI leader Omar Ayub, Solangi advised against lecturing him on constitutional duties, suggesting that parties or individuals with complaints about the election’s fairness should approach the courts and the independent Election Commission.
Solangi assured that the caretaker government would address complaints within its jurisdiction and in accordance with the Constitution and law. He emphasized the Election Commission’s responsibility to conduct transparent, free, fair, and impartial elections in the country.
