Tehrik-i-Insaf chief Imran Khan addressing a public meeting. — Photo by PPI

LAHORE, Dec 8: Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaaf chairman Imran Khan on Thursday alleged that the Sindh government was still refusing him permission to hold the rally on Dec 25 but his party was determined to go ahead with the pledge it had made to the public.

Speaking to newsmen at Lahore airport, he averred the Karachi rally was a national event as it was “designed to bring national unity and peace in the country especially in Karachi” and the party would hold it in the same spirit.

“The PTI is still pressing the reluctant Sindh government for permitting it to hold rally,” he said. Peace in the country, particularly Karachi, was essential for economic prosperity of Pakistan, he said while expressing hope that the government would budge.

As for the national political scene, he said the only solution was “creation of an independent election commission and holding transparent elections.” All bogus votes must be removed from the lists but it's possible only when the election commission was truly independent and worked without fear and favour, he said.

The current setup, he said, had failed because of incompetence and corruption. “Only a clean and sincere leadership can steer the country out of the mess,” he added.

Opinion

Editorial

Afghan puzzle
Updated 28 May, 2024

Afghan puzzle

Unless these elements are neutralised, it will not be possible to have the upper hand over terrorist groups.
Attacking minorities
28 May, 2024

Attacking minorities

WHILE Pakistan has watched many perish in the cauldron of sacrilege, the state has done little to turn down the...
Persistent scourge
28 May, 2024

Persistent scourge

THE challenge of polio in Pakistan has reached a new nadir, drawing grave concerns from the Technical Advisory Group...
Mercury rising
Updated 27 May, 2024

Mercury rising

Each of the country's leaders is equally responsible for the deep pit Pakistan seems to have fallen into.
Antibiotic overuse
27 May, 2024

Antibiotic overuse

ANTIMICROBIAL resistance is an escalating crisis claiming some 700,000 lives annually in Pakistan. It is the third...
World Cup team
27 May, 2024

World Cup team

PAKISTAN waited until the very end to name their T20 World Cup squad. Even then, there was last-minute drama. Four...