KARACHI, Aug 22: The Deputy Convenor of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement, Dr Farooq Sattar, on Monday alleged that the Jamaat-i-Islami was not interested in peace and claimed that firing at the residence of Prof Ghafoor Ahmad was part of a conspiracy which the party had hatched.

Speaking at a news conference, he alleged that after failing in its conspiracy in the first round of elections when fears of a bloodbath were expressed by the Jamaat leaders, the JI had now hatched another conspiracy, under which JI’s “terrorists” attacked Prof Ghafoor’s residence to shift blame on the MQM.

He said that MQM activists had shown commendable restraint despite provocations and killing of its workers, and the city remained peaceful as against the fears expressed, while there were killings and violence in Punjab and elsewhere.

He alleged that the Jamaat had links with international terrorists and Al Qaeda and said the arrest of Al Qaeda men from the residence of JI leaders was an ample proof of it.

Dr Sattar said that it was the restraint which led to MQM’s historic win. He said in the interest of peace and amity he had visited Idara-i-Noor-i-Haq and offered an olive branch. But the JI’s attitude remained adamant.

He alleged that the JI thrived on politics of bodies and said the MQM believed that those who did not allow Prof Ghafoor to become JI chief were now trying to get rid of him, like Dr Athar Qureshi.

He demanded that official protection should be provided to Prof Ghafoor Ahmed.

Dr Sattar asked the JI to respect voters’ verdict in the local body polls and join hands in development activities.