Pakistan’s exiled political leader Altaf Hussain has launched a fresh attack on the country’s government and military leadership, claiming that Pakistan is facing multiple internal crises while its leaders remain focused on foreign affairs. Speaking in a video posted on social media, the founder of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) referred to protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), unrest in Balochistan and the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, urging the country’s rulers to address domestic challenges. His remarks come as large demonstrations continue in parts of PoK demanding greater rights.
Who is Altaf Hussain?
Altaf Hussain is the founder of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), a political party that mainly represents Urdu-speaking Muhajirs, whose families migrated from India to Pakistan after Partition. Once one of Pakistan’s most influential political leaders, Hussain has been living in exile in London for several decades.
Although he continues to comment on Pakistan’s political developments through speeches and social media, he remains a controversial figure in the country’s politics. His latest comments have once again placed him at the centre of political debate.
What did Altaf Hussain say?
In his video message, Altaf Hussain accused Pakistan’s political and military leadership of ignoring serious domestic issues. He claimed that people in PoK were protesting for their rights, while families in Balochistan were still waiting to bury their loved ones following alleged violence.
He also referred to the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and rising inflation, saying the country’s leaders should focus on resolving internal problems instead of concentrating on international developments.
Hussain further alleged that Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and Army leadership were spending too much time discussing regional geopolitical issues while failing to address the concerns of ordinary citizens.
Large protests continue in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir
Hussain’s statement comes amid reports of large protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Demonstrators in areas including Rawalakot have reportedly gathered in large numbers to demand greater rights and oppose the current administration.
According to protest leaders, the movement is aimed at highlighting political and economic grievances in the region. Videos and reports circulating on social media have shown large public gatherings, although independent verification of crowd sizes and some claims remains limited.
Domestic challenges remain under focus
Apart from PoK, Hussain also pointed to the situation in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as examples of Pakistan’s ongoing internal challenges. He alleged that the government and military had failed to effectively deal with issues related to security, human rights and governance.
His comments also included a reference to India’s reported deployment of nuclear-capable submarines, which he cited while criticising Pakistan’s leadership priorities. However, he did not provide evidence linking this claim to the country’s internal situation.
The latest remarks add to the growing political debate over Pakistan’s domestic stability as protests, economic concerns and security challenges continue to dominate public discussion. While Altaf Hussain’s comments have drawn attention because of his political background and influence among sections of the Pakistani diaspora, the Pakistani government has not officially responded to his latest statements.
