MQM-Pakistan, London protesters come face to face in Azizabad

KARACHI: Situation became tense on Wednesday when both MQM-Pakistan and London factions’ protesters came face to face at Yadagar-e-Shuhada in Azizabad, Karachi.

Karachi Mayor Waseem Akhtar along with a rally reached Yadgar-e-Shuhda hours after his release from jail. The rally members comprised mostly MQM Pakistan supporters and workers.

After a while, members of the MQM London also reached the venue and started chanting pro-MQM founder slogans.

Police baton-charged MQM London protesters to disperse them.

Police also stopped London faction supporters from reaching Yadgar-e-Shuhda, and took into custody seven of its members. A case has been registered against them in Azizabad police station. 

MQM London Raabita Committee condemned the action taken by police against its workers. The committee said that except for MQM every party in Sindh enjoys political freedom.

"Only MQM is being stopped from peaceful political activities," it said.

Earlier in the day, MQM Pakistan leader and Karachi Mayor Waseem Akhtar was released from central jail, after a court granted him bail in all cases.

Waseem Akhtar following his release from jail reached Mazar-e-Quaid and also addressed media personnel.