MQM chief went way too far in speech: Sherry Rehman

KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sherry Rehman took to social media and condemned statements made by the MQM chief.

“AH went way too far in his speech. No excuse for attack on the media either; just hope we can uphold due process, the mark of justice, democracy,” Rehman tweeted.

Earlier, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari tweeted that freedom of speech is fundamental human right in democracy, sacrifices for which were made by his party and journalistic community.

He further said that only a strong democracy could fight terrorism as he condemned attacks on freedom of press, be it by a political party, religious groups or the state itself.

Earlier on Monday evening, MQM workers turned to violence after being told by their party chief to surround the offices of Geo News, Samaa and ARY in Karachi.

During his address, the MQM supremo reportedly also made statements against Pakistan and urged activists to voice slogans against the country.

At least one person reportedly injured in the firing near Zainab market succumbed to his wounds at the hospital.

Two other people sustained injuries during the violent attacks in which around 2,000 party workers reportedly took part.

The workers also caused damage to shops located in Zainab market in the city's Saddar area forcing their closure. Traffic jams were witnessed in areas surrounding I.I.Chundrigar road, while the road leading to CM House was also blocked.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that those responsible must be arrested as soon as possible. He said that adequate security must be provided to journalists in Karachi.

Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif telephoned DG Rangers Sindh and directed to maintain law and order situation in Karachi. The Army chief said that those who caused the mayhem must be caught at all cost.

DG Rangers during the phone call assured General Raheel that stern action would be taken against the miscreants and their instigators.