Islamabad, 23 May 2023 (GNP): Renowned human rights activist and former Minister of Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, made a significant announcement today, declaring her retirement from active politics and her decision to step away from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
Shireen Mazari cited personal reasons as the driving force behind her departure.
During a press conference held in Islamabad, Mazari expressed her condemnation of the recent violent incidents that occurred during the protests on May 9 and 10.
She reiterated her long-standing stance against any form of violence, particularly targeting state institutions and symbols, such as the General Headquarters, Supreme Court, and Parliament.
Mazari went on to explain that her choice to leave the PTI and active politics was influenced by the challenging circumstances she endured during her 12-day period of arrest, emphasizing the adverse impact it had on her health and her daughter, lawyer Imaan Hazir Mazari.
Also Read: President Zelenskyy in Saudi Arabia
“For me, my family, my mother, and my children come first,” Mazari asserted, emphasizing that her main priorities revolve around her children’s well-being and her personal health. “Nothing else is important for me.”
Reaction to Mazari’s resignation
Journalists and members of civil society expressed their disappointment and concern over the circumstances surrounding Mazari’s resignation.
Senior journalist Hamid Mir labeled her retirement as a “huge loss” for democracy and human rights activism in Pakistan.
Similarly, anchorperson Shahzeb Khanzada described the situation as “embarrassing” for democracy, emphasizing that repeatedly imprisoning a 72-year-old woman after being granted bail seemed unjustifiable.
Political analyst Mosharraf Zaidi considered the development an “absolute disgrace” for the government, the military, and the entire nation.
Meanwhile, senior journalist Mohammad Malick expressed sadness over the manner in which Mazari was allegedly “convinced” to quit her party and politics, questioning why her daughter had to endure such misery in the first place.
