Prominent cleric and head of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) Tahirul Qadri Sunday alleged that the joint investigation team (JIT) probing allegations of money laundering against the Sharif family is working as an 'election cell' for the ruling PML-N. Qadri, who spoke to reporters at Lahore airport upon his arrival from Canada, claimed that the criticisms that have been levelled against the JIT by Hussain Nawaz and two other witnesses are all part of a "plot".
"This criticism is a plot. Through their criticism, the JIT will be shown to be neutral," he claimed. Qadri elaborated that the PML-N will plan its election campaign around the decision of the JIT, which consists of "servants of the ruling party". "When a favourable decision comes, they will say it was made despite the allegations made against the JIT," Qadri alleged.
He said the investigation team is preparing PML-N's manifesto for next election, and there is no hope of justice from the JIT. Tahir-ul-Qadri said the matter of photo leak is just a drama, and no less than any plot of a movie. He said this was aimed at generating sympathy for the Sharif Family and will be a slogan for Nawaz Sharif during the 2018 elections.
He once again claimed that revolution and change will come in Pakistan to alter the fate of this country. He also branded the election system of Pakistan a fraud, and remarked he does not believe in it. PAT chief further continued that he will not remain silent on the Model Town brutality, and fight for the justice and Qisas till his death. He made it clear that he is not one of those who lose their courage, and will continue this battle against the rulers.
"We will go to the Supreme Court when the lower court makes a decision," he said further, adding that the real perpetrators of the tragedy have yet to be summoned by the court. Qadri told he will announce his strategy regarding Model Town incident soon. He will also meet leaders of other political parties, and a sitting with Chaudhry brothers is expected shortly.
"We have to bring all the opposition parties on one platform against the 'Lahore Throne'," he said, referring to the ruling party. Qadri did not comment when asked on his possible 'alliance' with Imran Khan this time around. In June of last year, Qadri had made calls for protest over the Model Town tragedy after returning from Canada. Qadri and Khan were partners in the 2014 sit-in in Islamabad against 'rigging' in the 2013 elections. However, the two later parted ways over differences on various issues.
Qadri who returned to Pakistan after six months said his home coming was according to scheduled programme. PAT chairman arrived in Lahore from Egypt via Dubai at 8:15 AM. A large number of Dr Tahir-ul-Qadri's followers were present at the Lahore airport to welcome their leader, who then escorted him to his home in Model Town.