Compromising national security for political gains unacceptable: Sadiq Sanjrani

Former Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani has said that national security and sovereignty must remain above political interests,

ISLAMABAD: Former Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani has said that national security and sovereignty must remain above political interests, stressing that any attempt to compromise these principles for political gains is unacceptable.

In a statement issued on Friday, Sanjrani acknowledged that political parties and leaders have the democratic right to criticise government policies and oppose official decisions. However, he cautioned that political disagreement should not be used to undermine national interests or fuel narratives that could benefit Pakistan’s adversaries.

Referring to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the former Senate chairman said opposition to government decisions was a legitimate part of the democratic process. He maintained, however, that political criticism must be exercised responsibly, particularly when matters involving national security, sovereignty and the country’s interests are concerned.

Sanjrani warned that statements made without due consideration of their wider implications could inadvertently reinforce narratives promoted by hostile elements. He emphasised that political leaders should remain mindful of the potential consequences of their public remarks, especially at a time when Pakistan continues to face security challenges.

He described terrorism as a national tragedy that should not become a subject of political bargaining. According to Sanjrani, the fight against terrorism requires unity, responsible political conduct and a shared commitment to protecting the country and its citizens.

“Terrorism is a national tragedy, not a tool for political bargaining,” he said.

The former chairman also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s security personnel and other citizens who have lost their lives in the fight against terrorism. He said the sacrifices of the country’s martyrs and the suffering endured by their families deserved the highest respect and recognition.

Sanjrani stressed that these sacrifices should not be used for political point-scoring or narrow partisan interests. He maintained that the families of those who lost their lives in the line of duty deserved solidarity and respect from all political quarters.

“The sacrifices of our martyrs are not for political point-scoring,” he asserted.

He further said that the country’s long-term stability depended on responsible leadership, clarity of purpose and a consistent national position against terrorism. Political differences, he added, should not overshadow the broader responsibility of safeguarding Pakistan’s security and territorial integrity.

Sanjrani’s remarks highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between democratic opposition and national responsibility. While disagreement with government policies remains a fundamental democratic right, he suggested that public discourse on sensitive security matters should be guided by caution and an awareness of the country’s wider interests.

He called for an unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and protecting national sovereignty, emphasising that the country’s future depended on collective responsibility rather than political divisions.

Sanjrani concluded that Pakistan needed a clear and determined approach to confronting terrorism, adding that national security should remain a shared priority across the political spectrum.

His statement comes amid continuing debate over political differences and national security, underscoring the importance of responsible dialogue on issues affecting the country’s stability and future.