Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari reacted to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)‘s planned “final showdown” protest on Sunday, emphasizing that the state would not give in to what she described as “rioters.” During a press conference, she reassured the public that Lahore was calm, with people continuing their daily routines without disruption. She downplayed claims of widespread unrest, stating that the protests were largely confined to WhatsApp groups and not taking place on the streets.
Bokhari dismissed PTI’s revolutionary rhetoric, saying, “Those claiming to bring a revolution are still asleep,” and added that Bushra Baji, PTI founder Imran Khan’s wife, was also not participating in any protests. She criticized PTI’s leadership for involving government employees in the protests, warning that attempts to cause chaos in the province would not succeed. “The state will not surrender to rioters,” she declared.
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On the political situation in the Punjab Assembly, Bokhari pointed out that despite PTI’s substantial presence with 104 members, no significant opposition activity had been observed. She also referenced the heightened security concerns, particularly a recent terrorist threat alert issued by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following the arrest of three terrorists in Islamabad, involved in activities in Balochistan.
The minister’s remarks emphasized that, despite PTI’s attempts to mobilize protests, the public response seemed muted and the political situation in Punjab remained stable.
