Naqvi, Bilawal nearly aligned on proposed system reset

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said he and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari largely share the same position on the need for a system reset, stressing that any major political decision must be taken through consensus among coalition partners.

Speaking at a press conference at the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), Naqvi said Bilawal had called for a reset of the political system, while his own proposal covered a broader institutional and overall reset.

He said the PPP, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and other coalition partners were important stakeholders in the government. No major decision would be made without consulting the parties concerned, he added.

The interior minister also rejected speculation about possible differences within the ruling coalition, saying social media discussions would not affect relations among government partners.

On the proposal to establish new provinces, Naqvi suggested holding a referendum to determine public opinion. He said political parties could maintain their respective positions, but the people’s wishes should ultimately guide the decision.

He said the outcome of a public vote must be respected, whether people supported or opposed the creation of new provinces. He acknowledged that the PPP and other political parties had different views on the matter, adding that any alternative proposal should also be presented before the public.

Addressing concerns over corruption, Naqvi admitted that the problem existed across the country and required serious action. He particularly acknowledged corruption within the Capital Development Authority (CDA), saying authorities were pursuing cases against officials involved in misconduct.

He said action had also been taken against officials within the Interior Ministry. He and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry were taking strict measures against corruption, he added.

Naqvi said five major corruption cases involving the CDA were under investigation. He also mentioned the arrest of a Grade-17 government officer by the NCCIA, stressing that action should be based on evidence regardless of the position held by those involved.

Regarding the CDA’s anti-encroachment campaign, he said between 5,000 and 6,000 people had received notices over the occupation of government land in Islamabad. He clarified that the notices were not aimed at specific individuals and that the campaign had been continuing for several months.

He said people affected by the action could pursue legal remedies if they had objections.

Turning to cybercrime, Naqvi revealed that the NCCIA had uncovered an international examination fraud involving around 5,000 Pakistanis. According to the minister, suspects had facilitated candidates in passing examinations conducted by international institutions through fraudulent methods.

He said action would also be taken against Pakistanis who had allegedly benefited from the scheme. Naqvi praised NCCIA Director General Atif and his team for exposing the operation, warning that the scandal could have seriously damaged the country’s international reputation.

The minister further disclosed that the agency had arrested 15 suspects during the previous month in cases involving pornography-related activities. The suspects were allegedly operating mainly from Lahore and had links with international websites.

He also referred to separate investigations involving a call centre and a child victim, saying the agency had taken action in both cases.

Naqvi said the NCCIA was working to introduce a digital complaint management system to improve transparency and monitoring. The proposed system would enable authorities to register complaints electronically and track their progress.

However, he acknowledged that a shortage of staff and resources was affecting the agency’s performance. Despite personnel working around the clock, limited manpower had placed considerable pressure on its operations.

He said a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was scheduled for the following week to discuss the agency’s requirements and ways to strengthen its capacity.

Responding to recent speculation surrounding political and legal matters, Naqvi said rumours would not change the legal position. He maintained that everyone would receive the relief they were entitled to under the law, while matters requiring judicial intervention would be decided by the courts.