ROHRI – Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday firmly rejected social media rumors suggesting any plans to replace President Asif Ali Zardari with the army chief through a constitutional amendment, calling the speculation baseless and urging the public to ignore such misinformation.
Speaking to the media during a visit to Rohri—home to one of Pakistan’s oldest and largest Muharram processions—Naqvi appealed for a temporary halt to political discourse during the sacred days of Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram), emphasizing the importance of national unity and religious harmony.
“Let’s set politics aside for two days to honour the sanctity of Muharram,” he said.
Naqvi highlighted the peaceful environment surrounding Ashura processions across the country, attributing the success to coordinated security efforts by law enforcement and intelligence agencies. He noted that over one million mourners were participating in the Rohri procession alone.
“Special security arrangements are in place, and the processions are proceeding peacefully nationwide,” he said, praising the efforts of security personnel.
When asked about speculation over the army chief being positioned to assume the presidency, Naqvi dismissed the claims outright.
“These are just social media rumours. Don’t pay attention to them,” he said. “For the first time in Pakistan’s history, the government, politicians, and the military are on the same page. Some people are clearly uncomfortable with this unity.”
Turning to broader national issues, the minister reported continued progress in counterterrorism efforts, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and vowed to extend similar action against criminal gangs in the katcha areas, warning they would face the same fate as terrorists defeated in the north.
On Muharram arrangements, Naqvi shared key figures:
- Over 27,000 processions are taking place across the country today.
- 7,598 majalis (religious gatherings) are scheduled.
- Authorities have ensured roads remain open and public inconvenience is minimized.
Naqvi concluded by commending the coordination between federal and provincial governments, along with law enforcement and military agencies, for maintaining peace during the sensitive period. He reiterated his call for the public and political actors to unite in solidarity and avoid inflammatory political rhetoric during Ashura.
