President Arif Alvi feels embarrassed for 'royal' protocol accorded in Karachi

KARACHI - President Arif Alvi admitted on Saturday that he was accorded with a massive protocol upon arrival in hometown Karachi, despite his request not to 'embarrass' him with such motorcade.

Alvi took to Twitter and explained his position that he had only asked for a few cars, instead of 'long chain of official cars', which did not happen.

https://twitter.com/ArifAlvi/status/1040789316744695808

The clarification came after social media was abuzz with the debate that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf was following the same traditions followed by their predecessors of enjoying heavy protocol.

A few videos made rounds on the internet showing the president's long convoy as he departed from the Karachi airport.

The president's protocol also appeared to include more cars as in the video, the protocols given to Sindh chief minister and governor were also captured.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Sindh Governor Imran Ismail had gone to the airport to receive President Alvi as he returned to his hometown for the first time since taking office on Friday.

https://twitter.com/omar_quraishi/status/1040662839424212993

The president reportedly picked up his own luggage from the conveyor belt at the airport and also queued to board the airplane rather than opting for VIP facilities, the pictures of which were also shared on social media.

A Twitter user asked about the police mobiles stationed outside his house to which the president sais it needs to be reconsidered as well.

https://twitter.com/ArifAlvi/status/1040790664030629889

"I do not begrudge security but when it becomes painful for the common man we should draw a line somewhere," he added.