Some opposition leaders and over 100 activists have been placed under preventive detention to ensure a peaceful environment during the important hearings of the highest judicial forum and the completion of procedures by the Election Commission for the holding of presidential election, Pakistani Interior Ministry Spokesman Javed Iqbal Cheema said on Tuesday.
Speaking at the weekly news briefing here, Cheema said that instructions had been issued to the provincial governments and law enforcement agencies to ensure strict implementation of law in order to maintain peace and order.
The Supreme Court has been hearing the petitions of some opposition leaders challenging the dual office of President General Pervez Musharraf and his candidature for the forthcoming presidential election.
Local media reported that the government started to crack down upon opposition leaders and activists on Saturday after All Parties Democratic Movement (APDM), comprising over 30 opposition parties, warned to stage demonstrations and besiege the Election Commission on Sept. 27. The police detained some opposition leaders and over 100 activists in Islamabad, capital of the country, and Punjab province.
The government was left with no option but to take firm action to maintain public peace and order when facing threats of agitation and "gherao" of the Supreme Court and the Election Commission, Cheema said, adding that consequently the government had taken steps within the parameters of law as no government could allow any activities designed to create disturbance and chaos.
Replying a question with regard to the concern shown by the European Union and the United States over the arrest of opposition leaders, Cheema said that Pakistan knew best about what to do or what not to do to maintain peace and tranquility.
Cheema said it was the responsibility of the government to ensure peace, and law and order would be maintained at all costs.
Source: Xinhua
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article