PTI deletes X post of ‘provocative’ Bradford demonstration
Party says it does not endorse unlawful behaviour of any kind
ISLAMABAD: The PTI’s UK chapter has deleted a post on X which showed a video of “provocative” statements against Pakistan’s military leadership, saying it did not endorse unlawful behavior of any kind and advised “independent citizens” to “measure their remarks to avoid any misunderstandings”.
A video posted on PTI UK’s official X account on Dec 23 showed demonstrators — outside the Pakistani consulate in Bradford — openly threatening the military leadership while surrounded by people holding PTI flags. The post has since been deleted.
In a post on X early on Saturday, PTI UK said it had removed the post featuring a citizen’s “metaphorical remarks” against the military leadership.
“Although we do not believe the individual incited violence, the post was deleted in an abundance of caution to prevent potential misunderstanding, and legal safeguarding of the individual and her rights,” it said.
It alleged that Pakistanis at home and abroad were facing “unprecedented repression”, calling on the government to prioritise investigations into these cases.
“Public frustration is high due to Imran Khan and Bushra Khan’s prolonged isolation in inhumane and undignified prison conditions, as endorsed by the UN special rapporteur on torture,” it said.
“Concerns about their health and well-being are real and the cause of anxiety and anguish for his family, party members and millions of supporters all around the world,” it added.
“While this global concern is understandable and completely valid, PTI does not endorse unlawful behavior of any kind. Independent citizens are also advised to measure their remarks to avoid any misunderstandings,” it added.
“PTI remains firmly committed to non-violence and the rule of law, in accordance with the guidance of Imran Khan,” it said.
“It is also pertinent to state that we hope that this citizen in question will not be subjected to any act falling under transnational repression and the British government will ensure her safety, well-being and her right to due process,” it added.
Former PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry, who is part of the National Dialogue Committee (NDC) attempting to lower political temperatures, hailed the PTI’s move as “undoubtedly a positive step and a wise decision”.
“It will greatly contribute to de-escalating tensions among all parties involved. With such constructive measures, we can pave the way for a conducive atmosphere for dialogue,” he wrote on X. Monitoring Desk
