KARACHI: MQM leader Farooq Sattar on Saturday claimed that MQM headquarter Nine Zero has been sealed illegally and unconstitutionally, and that there was no reason behind this action following the party’s dissociation from Altaf Hussain.

“When we say that we have disconnected with London, it means that we are no more in contact with them, stop doing speculations,” Sattar said while addressing a press conference in the metropolis.

“Stop doubting our intention. If somebody is misguided, he should consult some Urdu linguistic for explanation of what we have said,” he added.

The senior party leader said that MQM has parted ways with Altaf 'Saahb' and the latter has been totally disconnected from the party affairs.

Sattar went on to say that MQM is only asking for political ownership, which is their due legal and political right.

“Stop our victimisation through media. Stop pressurising us through these ‘so-called’ analysts, we won’t take dictation from anyone.”

“You cannot seal the headquarter of a political party, only because of the controversial statements issued by an individual — who is already dissociated from the party,” said Sattar.

“We will cooperate with the law enforcement agencies if party members or workers are found involved in any unlawful action or violation of law and order,” he assured, adding that “unlawful raids and arrests of innocent workers must be stopped immediately”.

These actions demonstrate that it is not just about one person, but there is some other nefarious agenda being followed from behind the curtains, said Sattar. "It suggests you are planning to create fractions inside MQM."

The MQM leader said that more than 20 party offices have been demolished so far, despite the fact that many of them were legal and the properties are were donated by MQM's well-wishers.

“Even if these offices were illegal, why these offices were not demolished earlier?”

When Wasim Akhtar will take oath as Karachi’s mayor, he will announce to demolish all the illegal encroachments including our illegal offices [if any], Sattar announced.

“I herby inform the federal and provincial governments that our offices and members have nothing to do with the statements of Altaf Hussain. Stop pushing us towards negative approach. We showed positivity, and expect same from the governments.”

If there are any criminals in MQM, go ahead arrest them, but MQM and terrorism are two different entities, he asserted.

Opinion

Editorial

Disaffected voices
11 Oct, 2024

Disaffected voices

A FRESH stand-off is brewing between the state, and the recently banned PTM, principally over the tribal jirga that...
Joint anti-smog steps
11 Oct, 2024

Joint anti-smog steps

CLIMATE change knows no borders. Hence, much of the world is striving to control the rapidly rising global...
Agri taxes
11 Oct, 2024

Agri taxes

IT is not a good omen that reforms are once again being delayed. According to the finance minister, a new tax regime...
Mental wellness
Updated 10 Oct, 2024

Mental wellness

On this World Mental Health Day, the message is clear: mental health at work must become a priority.
IHK poll results
10 Oct, 2024

IHK poll results

AN interesting political arrangement has emerged after polls concluded in India-held Kashmir. It appears that the...
Demonstrating intent
10 Oct, 2024

Demonstrating intent

THE finance minister appears confident about the direction his ministry is taking and seems firmly committed to...