Pakistan has not declared a state of emergency: Marriyum
ISLAMABAD: Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has dismissed reports of an imposition of emergency rule in the country, clarifying that no such decision was made during a recent cabinet session.
The state broadcaster PTV News quoted her as stating: “Reports in the media about the imposition of emergency in the country are baseless. No decision was taken in the cabinet meeting regarding the implementation of emergency.” The minister has urged media outlets to verify their sources before publishing any news.
This statement comes amidst widespread rumours and speculations of an imminent imposition of emergency rule in Pakistan. Such rumours had been fueled by recent political unrest in the country.
The speculation about emergency rule has raised concerns among many Pakistanis who fear a return to authoritarianism and curbs on civil liberties. Emergency rule allows the government to suspend constitutional rights, including freedom of speech, assembly and the press. It also gives the government the power to detain individuals without charge and to suppress political opposition.
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Pakistan has a troubled history with emergency rule. The last time emergency rule was imposed in Pakistan was in 2007, under the then-President Pervez Musharraf. The move had led to widespread protests and civil unrest, and Musharraf was eventually forced to resign in 2008.
In recent months, there have been growing concerns about the state of democracy in Pakistan, with some critics alleging that the government is becoming increasingly authoritarian. The government has been accused of muzzling the press, suppressing dissent and curtailing civil liberties. The imposition of emergency rule would only serve to deepen these concerns and exacerbate the already tense political situation in the country.
It is hoped that the Pakistani government will continue to respect democratic norms and institutions, and that the current unrest in the country will be resolved through peaceful means. The international community must also remain vigilant and speak out against any attempts to undermine democracy and human rights in Pakistan.