Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Saturday warned groups protesting the conduct and results of last week's general elections that anarchy and disorder will not be tolerated.
His comments came as nationwide protests were staged on Saturday against the controversial February 8 elections, where allegations of rigging have been rife from almost all sides.
In an official statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, Kakar suggested that the recently conducted general elections in the country was a step towards "promoting democracy".
"Significant turnout from all segments of society, including both genders, has been acknowledged internationally," he said.
But with the largest party emerging from the polls alleging blatant rigging and statements from alleged polling staff presiding officers and a statement from the Rawalpindi commissioner casting serious doubts on the transparency and fairness of the electoral exercise conducted, Caretaker PM Kakar said that it was "imperative that all stakeholders realise that victory and defeat are inherent aspects of democratic processes."
"Parties and individuals who harbour any concerns regarding electoral irregularities are encouraged to pursue legal recourse through the available channels," he suggested while seeking to downplay allegations of blatant vote count manipulation — including one where a candidate who had finished third per Form-45s was declared as the winner with nearly twice the tally of votes — as "irregularities".
"Pakistan's legislative, judicial, and executive branches are resilient and stand ready to deliver impartial justice to all."
Kakar said that while peaceful protest and assembly was a fundamental right, he warned that any form of agitation, violence, or incitement for vigilantism would not be condoned and that the law would take its course without hesitation.
"Anarchy and disorder will not be tolerated at this crucial time."
He added that such actions would only serve to advance the agenda of hostile forces, both at the domestic and foreign fronts. He feared these forces could exploit and create grave law and order challenges.
"The caretaker government implores patience as political parties engage in consultations to form governments at both the federal and provincial levels, in accordance with democratic traditions and norms. We hope that this process concludes as early as possible with mutual understanding and respect."