Federal Interior Minister Rehman Malik on Thursday has apologized for Zulfiqar Mirza’s statement against MQM chief Altaf Hussain.
Speaking to media representatives in Islamabad, Malik said that the party leadership is shocked over Dr Mirza’s statement and added that Urdu speaking people are not only part of MQM but are also members in other parties including PPP as well.
He added that one should not forget and ignore the sacrifices rendered by the Urdu-speaking community in the making of Pakistan and said that after the passage of 65 years, such hurtful comments are not fair.
Malik said that Mirza’s statement has been disapproved by all party levels. He said that Altaf Hussain is an eminent leader and he would speak to him personally to lend a helping hand in bringing peace to the city. He urged PPP and MQM to remain peaceful and patient and work together in combating violence in the city.
“Altaf Hussain is a proven, unmatchable and great leader and he has a big heart; I request him to ask the people to calm down and show patience,” he added further.
The interior minister informed the media that President Asif Ali Zardari has taken notice of Dr Zulfiqar Mirza’s statement and has sought a report within 24 hours from Chief Minister Sindh.
Malik apologises over Mirza’s statement
