ISLAMABAD: In a stern warning issued on Friday, Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti unveiled the government’s plan to deport foreign nationals found participating in political activities within Pakistan.
Addressing the media in Islamabad, the interim minister disclosed that 10 Afghan nationals were in the process of being expelled due to their involvement in political activities.
Additionally, Bugti revealed that more than 200,000 illegal immigrants had departed the country as part of an ongoing government initiative to remove unauthorised foreign settlers from Pakistan, with 90 per cent opting for voluntary departure.
Bugti emphasised that all foreigners, particularly Afghan citizens, were strictly prohibited from engaging in any form of political activity on Pakistani soil. Consequently, he announced that 10 Afghan nationals allegedly involved in political activities were set for deportation.
The minister underscored that foreign nationals arriving in Pakistan on a visa are strictly forbidden from participating in the country’s politics. He highlighted the severity of this directive, stating that immediate deportation awaits those who violate this regulation.
Ensuring robust security measures during elections, especially for the safety of political leaders, Bugti acknowledged the essential role of political figures in public rallies.
He affirmed the government’s commitment to allowing their participation, acknowledging historical instances where political figures in Pakistan, notably former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, have been targeted during electoral campaigns.
Reflecting on the need for a resilient nation, Bugti called for Pakistan to evolve into a “hard state,” questioning the sustainability of remaining a “soft state”.
He stressed the transformation of the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) into a comprehensive institution to ensure national security.
Meanwhile, intelligence reports indicated a potential threat to the life of Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief. Bugti, expressing concern, urged the nation to prioritise security measures and vigilance in the face of potential threats to political figures.
