News
Thursday, October 21, 2010
No plans to call army in Karachi yet, says Gilani
* PM says political leadership capable of controlling situation
* Hopes SC gives positive verdict on 18th Amendment petitions
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: The government is not considering calling the army to restore law and order in Karachi, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said on Wednesday, and stressed that the political leadership was capable of addressing the issue.
Talking to reporters after visiting the Capital Development Authority headquarters, Gilani dismissed the statement of PPP leader Nabeel Gabol that the army was going to take control of the city, terming it his “personal view”. The PM said the army could be called in to assist the civil government, adding, “The political leadership is able to contain it.”
When asked if he had any information whether the unrest in Karachi was being manipulated by foreign hands, Gilani said he would respond once he received a detailed report from the interior minister. Condemning the killings, he said he had personally talked to the stakeholders in they city and efforts were underway to bring peace in the city.
SC verdict: To a question regarding the Supreme Court’s decision on 18th Amendment, the PM said he hoped for a positive verdict, adding that the PPP regarded the court more than any other party. Commenting on the remarks of Raja Riaz calling some journalists Indian agents, Gilani said it was the minister’s personal view and had nothing to do with the party’s line. He said there would be no compromise on media freedom during his tenure.
To a question on contacts between the PML-N and PML-Q, the PM said in a lighter tone, “It will be good for them and for us, they may think for our betterment.”
Prime Minister Gilani said majority of the articles of the Charter of Democracy had been implemented, while the rest would be done within months.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk