Afaq Ahmed cancels today's rally against rising incidents of heavy traffic in Karachi

Chairman of the Muhajir Qaumi Movement-Haqiqi (MQM-H), Afaq Ahmed, has announced the cancellation of a planned rally in Karachi following the arrest of more than 80 party workers.

Afaq had announced a rally in Karachi against rising heavy traffic accidents in the port city.

Speaking at a press conference, Ahmed said the decision was made to avoid public inconvenience and maintain peace amid the imposition of Section 144 by the government, which prohibits public gatherings.

He accused the government of using Section 144 as a preemptive measure to suppress the MQM-H's public mobilization, and highlighted that citizens of Karachi are suffering due to the corruption of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). Ahmed called for protests against what he described as ongoing injustices and said he had engaged with local traders and communities, receiving widespread support.

Ahmed emphasized that his political movement is not temporary, referencing his visits to Swati Mohalla and Buner, as well as late-night appeals from people seeking help.

Read more: Reckless driver hits motorcycles, mob burns dumpers at Karachi's Powerhouse Chowrangi

He dismissed accusations of inciting ethnic tensions, citing a recent meeting in Bahadurabad with ANP Sindh President Shahi Sayed, where both leaders reaffirmed friendship between Muhajirs and Pashtuns.

Afaq Ahmed also reiterated that he has no links to MQM founder Altaf Hussain or any anti-state elements. He shared that his legal team includes members from various ethnic backgrounds, countering claims of ethnic bias.

In a pointed statement, he expressed frustration over being labeled as promoting ethnic politics by MQM-Pakistan leader Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and urged for a more unified and inclusive approach to Karachi’s challenges. He concluded by honoring the city's hardworking residents, saying:

“Those who come out to earn a living are martyrs, and despite the MQM's negative public image, its representatives cannot act without the will of the people who elected them.”