Altaf gets passport back – ready to return to Pakistan?

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London Metropolitan Police have returned Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain's passport, a statement on the party's website says.

Altaf's passport was seized by British authorities during their investigation of a money laundering case in which the MQM supremo was a suspect.

An MQM spokesperson confirmed to Dawn.com that the party chief had yet to apply for a Pakistani visa.

After bail conditions against Altaf were removed due to insufficient evidence earlier this month, the restrictions on his movement were also lifted, the statement says.

Know more: London police removes Altaf Hussain’s bail conditions over lack of evidence

Following the Rangers raid on MQM headquarters Nine Zero in March 2015, Altaf in an interview expressed a desire to return to Pakistan for the sake of his party.

He said he was unable to do so at the time, as his passport was in possession of British authorities. He added that he would visit Pakistan as soon as his passport was returned.

It is however unlikely Altaf would attempt such a trip, given the existing political scenario, especially in Karachi.

The MQM supremo has been in self-exile in London since 1992. He has controlled MQM operations in Karachi sitting in the United Kingdom for nearly 24 years now.

After Altaf Hussain allegedly spoke against state institutions, including the army and Rangers, following the Nine Zero raid, the Lahore High Court ordered the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority to ban the broadcast of his speeches and images.

Next 15 days crucial, be vigilant: Rabita Committee

MQM's central coordination committee, also known as the 'Rabita Committee', made a "passionate appeal to Pakistanis to remain vigilant and keep their eyes and minds open over the next 15 days, as the coming days are extremely crucial."

The Rabita Committee statement advised citizens to stockpile medication for children, the elderly, and for those with diabetes and psychiatric concerns owing to 'frequent earthquakes and an unstable political environment in the country'.

The statement also calls for stocking up on matches, batteries, candles, oil, wood, and coal for the next 15 days, and to fill up fuel tanks.

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