Following Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) warning to organize protests over alleged rigging in elections, Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated on Monday that a "few people" are plotting to carry out riots similar to those that occurred on May 9, 2023.
It is pertinent to mention here that on May 9, riots erupted across the country following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in the £190 million settlement case. Hundreds of PTI activists and senior leaders were imprisoned for their roles in rioting and attacks on military sites.
During demonstrations, miscreants targeted civic and military institutions such as Jinnah House and the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi. The military declared May 9 "Black Day" and intended to prosecute the demonstrators under the Army Act.
While speaking to journalists after inaugurating a drug storage facility in Lahore, Naqvi said, "Holding peaceful protests is everyone's right, but if incidents like May 9 occur again, strict action will be taken."
He also stated that no one would be prevented from organizing peaceful protests.
The caretaker CM further said the decision to shut down mobile phone services in the country was made by the federal government and that his caretaker government fulfilled its obligations.
Naqvi further emphasized that anyone who has any concerns about the election results may contact the appropriate forums.