MQM rally today to express support for armed forces

KARACHI: The Muttahdia Qaumi Movement (MQM) is all set to stage a rally on Shahra-e-Qaideen today to express solidarity with the armed forces and promote unity among the nation so it can stand up to the Taliban militants. Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, a deputy convener of the party, said on Saturday the solidarity rally represented national unity which would guarantee Pakistan a bright future. “Our unity will put us onto the path of prosperity and will enable us to achieve our goals. Our situation demands tough decisions, unity and action. If we fail to act then it would prove disastrous to us and our coming generations,” he said while addressing a press conference at the Khursheed Memorial Secretariat. Siddiqui hoped the rally would prove a referendum against the Taliban and their supporters. He appealed to the Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Hindus, Parsis and members of other communities to participate in the rally in large numbers and show their hatred for the terrorists and support for the armed forces of Pakistan. “The solidarity rally will prove very good for the security and territorial integrity of Pakistan. It will be a milestone in the history of Pakistan. “I appeal to elders, young men, women, girls and kids, members of civil society, laborers and members of other walks of life to come out of their homes.” The MOM leader said: “It is a time for crucial decisions and actions. The religious extremism, which was allowed to go unchecked, has become a menace for us. Today terrorism has become an uncontrollable beast. It is destabilizing our country.” He added: “Quaid-e-Tehreek Altaf Hussain has always warned the nation about dangers and challenges faced by Pakistan. We condemn the brutal murders of FC personnel by Taliban terrorists. “This is the first step where people of Karachi will show their unity against terrorists and extremists. We will organise rallies in Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Peshwar and other cities.”