KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) on Sunday sacked London-based senior party member and close aide of supremo Altaf Hussain – Mohammad Anwar – from the party's central coordination committee, also known as the 'Rabita Committee'.

In a statement issued Sunday night, the party said the move came owing to Anwar's continued illness, which had often caused him to "remain absent from crucial meetings."

"The MQM is currently a subject of direct political vengeance at the hands of the establishment. In such circumstances it is absolutely crucial that all senior members of the Rabita Committee are not only present at all times but are also physically and mentally fit," read the statement.

The statement went on to say that prolonged illness had also significantly affected Anwar's memory.

"Mohammad Anwar is no more a member of the Rabita Committee. All workers are therefore advised not to establish contact with him on organisational matters," said the statement issued by the party.

The statement recognised Anwar for his contribution to the party in times of duress, but also noted that in recent times he was not "actively taking interest in MQM's organisational matters, like he had done in the past."

During Sunday's meeting headed by Rabita Committee Deputy Convener Nadeem Nusrat, it was also decided to infuse the coordination committee with senior and active members, who will replace those unable to fulfill their duties aptly.

It is pertinent to mention here that Anwar was arrested in April this year by the London Metropolitan Police and was questioned for hours before being released on bail in connection to a money laundering investigation.

Take a look: MQM's Mohammad Anwar released on bail by London police.

Anwar's bail in the money laundering case was extended till October, along with MQM chief Altaf Hussain and Tariq Mir, only a few days ago.