Remarks aimed at Bani Gala opponents, not JIT: Nehal Hashmi

KARACHI: Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Nehal Hashmi on Thursday said he was addressing Bani Gala’s occupants and not the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) investigating the Panama Leaks case in his recent controversial speech.

He was referring to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, whose chairman, Imran Khan, resides in Bani Gala, Islamabad. 

Hashmi had submitted his resignation as a PML-N senator after instructions from the PML-N leadership following his recent controversial remarks against the judiciary.

Against party wishes, Nehal Hashmi takes back resignation from Senate

Former PML-N leader had recently resigned in light of party directions following controversial speech

As a result, Hashmi — who was also suspended from the party — had submitted his resignation to Senate Chairman Raza Rabbani. On Monday, Hashmi failed to show up in Rabbani's office to personally verify his resignation, as asked by Rabbani.

“Others have made similar speeches but no action was taken against them,” Hashmi said in Geo News’ programme Aaj Shahzaib Khanzada Kay Sath.

Rabbani approves Nehal Hashmi’s request to take back his resignation

Rabbani said Hashmi has admitted he tendered his resignation under duress and unusual circumstances

The senator claimed that the social media has targeted him only because he belongs to a middle-class family.

According to a written request submitted to the Senate chairman, Hashmi said he submitted his resignation amid intense pressure. He claimed that he wants to continue serving his duties as a senator.

The speech

In a speech to workers in Karachi at a Youm-e-Takbeer event, which went viral on May 31, Hashmi had threatened the prime minister's unidentified 'enemies'.

Before losing his position, Hashmi was the party's general secretary for Sindh.

"The one you are investigating is the PM's son," roared Hashmi. "Those investigating us [must know] we will observe your day of judgment,” he stated further.

The statements were taken to be directed at the judiciary and the Joint Investigation Team probing the prime minister's family in light of the Supreme Court's April 20 judgment in the Panama case.

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In the video, Hashmi also lashed out at PTI leader Imran Khan, casting doubts over the money trail of his Bani Gala estate. “We will reduce the space in this country for your kids and your family," he added.

Later, the prime minister suspended Hashmi’s party membership and directed him to tender his resignation from the Senate.

On June 3, the Attorney General of Pakistan Ashtar Ausaf also initiated action against Hashmi, asking the Sindh government to file a criminal case against Hashmi. Following this, a case was registered against him at the Bahadurabad Police Station in Karachi.