<\/p>\n
\u2022 Interior minister highlights \u2018general threat\u2019 to politicians, but \u2018specific alert\u2019 for Fazl
\u2022 Says Afghans residing legally will also be deported if found involved in political activities<\/p>\n
ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Inter\u00adior Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti emphasised the government\u2019s readiness to ensure peaceful general elections but at the same time acknowledged the terrorist threats faced by political leaders in the run-up to the February polls.<\/p>\n
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Mr Bugti highlighted a general threat to political figures, with a specific alert for JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.<\/p>\n
He acknowledged the vulnerability of political leaders to terrorism during public rallies and gatherings, labelling it a significant challenge in the current climate of terrorism. He also pointed out the reluctance of political figures to limit their public appearances, preferring to engage directly with the electorate.<\/p>\n
The minister said there was a history of terrorist activities during election days and recalled that many political leaders, including former premiers Shaukat Aziz and Benazir Bhutto, Nawab Sanaullah Zehri and Mir Siraj Khan Raisani, were targeted during election campaigns and political rallies from 2002 onwards. He, however, vowed to provide the people with an opportunity to freely exercise their right to vote.<\/p>\n