Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General (DG) Maj-Gen Ahmed Sharif addressed a press conference in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, setting the stage for significant discussions just two days ahead of May 9th.
DG ISPR said that the saboteurs of the May 9, 2023 incidents must make a public apology from a true heart before hoping for anything, adding that those should shun negative politics and tricks and should play a positive role in the country’s development.
This date holds profound importance in the country’s political narrative, marking the anniversary of attacks on military installations following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan, which triggered a crackdown against the party.
During the question and answer session, Gen Sharif was queried about the events of May 9th. In response, he emphasized that the significance of May 9th extends beyond the Pakistan Army to encompass the entire nation. He stressed the importance of upholding justice, stating, “If an attack is launched on a country’s army, martyrs’ symbols are insulted, and its founder’s house is set on fire, justice demands that perpetrators, both executors and masterminds, be held accountable.”
Gen Sharif underscored the need for transparency and accountability, emphasizing that the events of May 9th were witnessed by all, with irrefutable evidence available to the public. He highlighted the orchestrated campaign of lies and propaganda aimed at sowing discord between the army and the public, emphasizing the imperative of bringing those responsible to justice.
Drawing parallels with international precedents, Gen Sharif cited instances such as the London riots of 2011 and the Capitol Hill riots, where swift judicial action was taken to ensure accountability. He emphasized the necessity of robust judicial mechanisms to prevent such incidents from recurring and to deter those with malicious intentions from attacking the state.
Responding to demands for a judicial commission to investigate the May 9th riots, Gen Sharif welcomed the initiative but urged a comprehensive inquiry that delves into related events, including the 2014 dharna, attacks on Parliament, and assaults on state institutions. He stressed the need to investigate external influences, such as lobbying efforts to deny loans to Pakistan, and the propagation of hate speech on social media.
Gen Sharif cautioned against the dangers of allowing impunity for those who engage in deceit and propaganda, emphasizing the importance of speaking truth to counter falsehoods. He commended the Pakistani public for distancing themselves from the events of May 9th, affirming their commitment to upholding the principles of justice and integrity.
During the press briefing, DG ISPR Maj-Gen Ahmed Sharif addressed the prevailing tensions with Afghanistan and the persistent threat of terrorist attacks originating from across the border.
He began by discussing the tragic incident in Bisham, where five Chinese engineers lost their lives in a terrorist attack. Gen Sharif revealed that the plot for this attack was orchestrated in Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for justice against those responsible.
Despite Pakistan’s efforts for regional peace and its hospitality towards Afghan refugees, terrorist activities by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) persist from Afghan territory. Gen Sharif expressed disappointment over the lack of progress despite presenting evidence to the Afghan interim government.
He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating that efforts extend to targeting terror hideouts in Afghanistan. He cited instances of recent attacks and subsequent retaliatory measures by Pakistan.
Regarding India, Gen Sharif highlighted multiple threats on the eastern border and accused India of attempting to divert attention from internal issues through ceasefire violations and airspace breaches.
On the repatriation of illegal Afghan nationals, Gen Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s stance, emphasizing the decision’s necessity for national security and economic stability. He disclosed that over half a million illegal Afghan citizens have been repatriated so far, with ongoing efforts to address the issue comprehensively.
 Director General (DG) Maj-Gen Ahmed Sharif addressed a press conference in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, setting the stage for significant discussions just two days ahead of May 9th.){kind=link}