Islamabad, October 12 (Daily Kiran) : The Sindh High Court Bar Association (SHCBA) and Karachi Bar Association (KBA) have voiced strong opposition to the Pakistani government’s recent decision to impose emergency measures and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They labeled the move as “undemocratic” and announced plans to observe a “Black Day” in protest.
According to reports from local media, the SHCBA has urged the administration to respect citizens’ fundamental rights and take steps to restore democracy. The KBA announced that its members would not engage in official work on Monday and called for a general meeting to discuss the implications of the emergency and governor’s rule.
The associations appealed to all political parties to respect the mandate of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and refrain from actions that could lead to political instability or erode public trust in democratic institutions.
On the same day, Gohar Ali Khan, chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), condemned the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in the province, describing the central government’s decision as a “political blunder and undemocratic.”
Khan expressed his disapproval on social media, stating, “We strongly condemn the imposition of emergency in the province and reject this action entirely. It is a deeply concerning and serious political mistake that the people will never accept.”
He emphasized that the mandate of the people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is their constitutional and legal right. He warned that ignoring this mandate and undermining provincial autonomy would not lead to peace but rather exacerbate tensions between the federal and provincial governments.
Khan stressed that while there is no disagreement on combating terrorism, the fight against it should not be used to suppress public voices, achieve political goals, or limit the province’s constitutional rights.
He further stated, “Weakening the provinces will not strengthen the federation. Solutions to problems lie not in coercion, confrontation, and extraordinary measures, but in political wisdom, upholding the constitution, meaningful dialogue, and practical steps. We will raise a strong voice on every constitutional, legal, and democratic platform to protect the people’s mandate, provincial autonomy, and constitutional rights.”
Khan added that empowered provinces are the foundation of a strong federation, and adherence to the constitution is essential for a powerful Pakistan. He urged the government to reconsider its decision within a few days, suggesting that humility and acknowledgment of the ground realities are necessary. He called for the acceptance of legitimate demands to prevent further political and economic harm and to safeguard the democratic process.
This statement from lawyers and the PTI chairman comes after the federal government declared a state of emergency in twelve districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday, following the approval of cabinet recommendations by President Asif Ali Zardari.
Leave a Comment