Web Desk; The controversy surrounding Shama Junejo’s presence at the United Nations during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit has deepened after she issued a detailed statement in response to Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s remarks.
Earlier, a photo of Khawaja Asif at the UN General Assembly session had gone viral on social media, showing Shama Junejo seated directly behind him. Her presence sparked a backlash due to her pro-Israel views, with many questioning her inclusion in Pakistan’s delegation.
Khawaja Asif denied recognising Junejo, insisting she was not part of the official team and attributing her presence to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry later also stated that she was not included in the official delegation.
However, in a lengthy statement posted on X, Junejo countered these claims, saying she was formally appointed as an adviser to the Prime Minister and worked closely with his team for months. She asserted that she drafted parts of the premier’s UN speech, travelled with his delegation, stayed in the same hotel, and attended high-level meetings, including with Bill Gates.
She further alleged that Khawaja Asif sat beside her during car rides, and directly in front of her during the prime minister’s address at the UN. Junejo maintained that her security pass and travel arrangements were all official, handled by the government’s protocol team.
Junejo concluded her statement by accusing Khawaja Asif of undermining the Prime Minister’s authority. “Why is Khawaja Asif making such claims? This is not about me but about the PM’s authority being challenged,” she remarked.
The controversy has fueled debate on social media, with critics demanding clarity from the government on the matter.
