Kaira urges PTI to reconsider decision of holding protest at D-Chowk

LALAMUSA: Pakistan Peoples Party’s central leader Chaudhry Qamar Zaman Kaira has urged the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to reconsider its decision of holding a protest at Islamabad’s D-Chowk on October 15.

Speaking to media at Dera Kaira here on Sunday, he expressed concerns over the potential implications of the protest, which coincided with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. “The PTI’s call for protest at D-Chowk during the SCO summit is a decision that could backfire on them. We already face opposition from entities that do not wish for the summit to be successfully held in Pakistan,” Kaira warned.

“Such actions could harm national interests by creating unrest during a critical international event.” Kaira emphasised that the PTI should collaborate with the government and choose a date for the protest after the summit to avoid unnecessary tensions. “If this protest continues as planned, it risks derailing the summit and could provide an excuse for external actors to stir trouble, affecting Pakistan’s image on the global stage.” Kaira also took the opportunity to address the broader significance of legislative reform, particularly regarding the need for constitutional courts in Pakistan. He reiterated that constitutions and laws are designed to handle challenges the state faces. He stated, “If any member of the government or opposition believes that legislative changes are needed to address a particular issue, they should remember that such changes have long-term implications.”

Reflecting on the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) longstanding efforts in this domain, Kaira recalled the party’s role in advocating for constitutional reforms during the Charter of Democracy and the Eighteenth Amendment. “We have always supported the establishment of constitutional courts, as it’s a part of our constitutional mandate. It is crucial for judicial reorganisation,” he said.