Shahbaz urges MQM workers to distance themselves from Altaf’s statement

LAHORE: Lashing out at Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain over his controversial speech last night, Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif on Friday urged MQM workers and office bearers to disassociate themselves with the former’s statement.

Speaking to media representatives here, he said by seeking help from Indian spy agency RAW Altaf Hussain has hurt sentiments of millions of Pakistanis.

Terming the MQM chief’s statement as tantamount to betrayal of national objectives, the CM said Hussain should tender an unconditional apology to the nation.

The chief minister also lauded unparalleled sacrifices rendered by the armed forces of the country in the ongoing war against terrorism.

Speaking to the party workers Altaf Hussain had said: “We are called RAW agents every other day. Those who surrendered are called patriots, while the founders of Pakistan are dubbed traitors.”

Hussain's remarks came hours after SSP Malir Rao Anwar called for a ban against the MQM for its alleged links with the RAW. Anwar was later dismissed by the IG Sindh upon directives of Chief Minister Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah.