(24 News) Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has said that imran Khan agreed too the offer to change the place of protest, but Bushra Bibi did not agree.
Talking to the media in Sialkot, he said that on November 24, PTI called for a sit-in, those people crossed the barriers and reached Islamabad, Rangers jawans and police personnel were martyred, hundreds were injured. That the third attack on the Federation failed.
He said that you will not find an example of running away like PTI in any war or movement after facing the first real resistance. Offered and Imran Khan also agreed, but this woman Bushra Bibi saw the crowd and said who will go there now.
He said that the crowd of PTI was good, those who have spent their life in politics, they keep seeing such a crowd, but Bushra Bibi saw such a crowd for the first time and said that I will go to D Chowk, but what will happen after that.Hawa and those who fled from there escaped with Gandapur.
He said that bricks kept falling on the car of Gandapur, they also escaped from there with great difficulty and the incident took place in mansehra, after that Latif Khosa said that 278 people were killed there, each leader told the deaths separately, someone said 1000 people. Someone said somthing, but now the number is in single digits, but no funeral video has come out yet, or no video of the heirs of the deceased has come out, nor has there been any evidence that there There was bloodshed, there were definitely injuries, but no evidence of death was found.
Meanwhile, he said that PIA’s resumption of Europe flights is welcome, now we will be able to capture the European market, the decision to resume Europe flights will also benefit PIA’s privatization process and increase its market. will go
How does the resumption of PIA flights to Europe impact the airline’s privatization process?
Exclusive Interview: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif Discusses Recent Political Developments and PIA’s Future
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us today,Minister Khawaja Asif. Your insights are invaluable, especially regarding the recent protests by the Pakistani Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the future of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). Let’s start with the protests. you mentioned that Imran Khan agreed to a change of protest location but that Bushra Bibi was hesitant. Can you elaborate on the dynamics at play here?
Khawaja Asif: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to understand the context of the PTI protests. Imran Khan was open to negotiating a new venue for the sit-in, but Bushra Bibi’s concerns reflected a fear of crowds and possible confrontations with law enforcement. When she saw the resistance from our security forces, her apprehension grew. It’s not uncommon for political leaders to reassess situations as they unfold.
Editor: You noted the impact of PTI’s actions on public safety and security forces.How do you view the overall consequences of these protests on national stability?
Khawaja asif: The protests resulted in significant unrest. We saw tragic losses, including the martyrdom of Rangers and police personnel. The casualties highlight the dangerous nature of political demonstrations when they escalate. It’s essential for political entities to approach dissent responsibly and consider the broader implications for society, including public safety and national cohesion.
Editor: Transitioning to the situation surrounding the protest casualties,you mentioned discrepancies in reported fatalities. Why do you think there’s such a vast variation in the figures?
Khawaja Asif: This is a critical issue. While many leaders cited inflated numbers to amplify their narrative, the absence of any credible evidence regarding the deaths has weakened those claims. It’s important in politics that we maintain credibility by providing accurate and verifiable facts. Misleading statistics can fuel conflict and further undermine trust in political institutions.
Editor: Moving on to the aviation industry,you greeted the resumption of PIA flights to Europe. What are the expected benefits of this development for the airline’s privatization process?
khawaja Asif: the resumption of flights to Europe is a strategic decision that opens up new revenue streams for PIA. It will not only enhance our market presence but also attract potential investors who seek stability and growth in the aviation sector. This is a significant step toward revitalizing PIA, and it can play a pivotal role in our ongoing privatization efforts—an essential move for the airline’s financial health.
Editor: In light of your extensive experience, what practical advice would you give to political leaders and entities when managing public demonstrations?
Khawaja Asif: Leaders must prioritize dialog and peaceful negotiation over escalation. Understanding the people’s concerns is vital. They should also prepare thoroughly for potential scenarios during protests and prioritize the safety of both demonstrators and law enforcement. Ultimately, demonstrators and authorities alike must ensure that dissent does not lead to violence or instability.
Editor: Thank you, Minister Khawaja Asif, for providing such insightful comments on the current political climate and the future of PIA.
Khawaja Asif: Thank you for having me. I hope that by addressing these issues with transparency and responsibility, we can work toward a more stable and prosperous future for Pakistan.