Major Pakistani Political Party Brokering Talks Between Government and Protestors in Bid to End Current Political Crisis

LONDON, Aug. 19, 2014 /CNW/ - Commenting on the current crisis, Mr Altaf Hussain, the leader of Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) has warned against any action that could harm the stability of Pakistan.

Mr Hussain said: "MQM supports the democratic right of any political party to organise peaceful rallies and demonstrations. This is why MQM has urged the government to refrain from using force against the participants of the protest marches and demonstrations organised by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT)."

At the same time MQM has called on the leadership of PTI and PAT to keep their protests completely peaceful and not resort to violence at any stage.

MQM believes that a political dialogue is the only way forward. Mr Hussain and senior MQM politicians are playing an active role in mediating between the government of Pakistan and the leaders of the current protests.

Mr Hussain said, "The only way to end the political crisis is by dialogue. The situation cannot be allowed to deteriorate any further." He appealed to the government and the protesting parties to start meaningful talks without delay and to resolve issues through cooperation, in the national interest.

Commenting on PTI chief Imran Khan calling for a civil disobedience movement, including non-payment of utility bills and taxes, Mr Hussain described his stance as counterproductive.

"Uncertainty has gripped Pakistan for the past many days because of the continuing demonstrations against the elected government. This has had a negative impact on the economy. The announcement of a civil disobedience movement and the call not to pay utility bills and taxes can only do further damage to Pakistan's fragile economy."

Mr Hussain appealed to PTI chief Imran Khan, in the name of peace and stability in Pakistan, not to risk violence by entering Islamabad's 'red zone' and to begin a dialogue with the government.

Mr Hussain said that the MQM had always sought to play a positive role in the past to ensure peace and stability in Pakistan. It was ready to do the same today.

Background: 

MQM, the fourth largest political party in Pakistan, is committed to a genuinely democratic Pakistan and supports equal rights and opportunities for all. It is a strong defender of the rights of women and all ethnic and religious minorities. As a liberal, tolerant and progressive party, it is firmly opposed to all forms of fanaticism and extremism.

Nadeem Nusrat, MQM spokesman

SOURCE: Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM), London Press Office

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