Asia - Pacific

Pakistan slams 'mischievous' rumors of official's death

Shortly after contracting COVID-19, top diplomat's Wikipedia page edited to say he died July 4, alleges Foreign Ministry

Islamuddin Sajid  | 09.07.2020 - Update : 09.07.2020
Pakistan slams 'mischievous' rumors of official's death

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan 

Pakistan on Thursday denounced "mischievous" attempts to change the Wikipedia page of its top diplomat to say he had died a day after testing positive for the novel coronavirus.

"We strongly condemn attempts by mischievous elements to hack Wikipedia page of FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi & spread rumours on social media about his health & well-being," tweeted Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Aisha Farooqui, underlining that Qureshi was quickly recovering from the virus.

The ministry posted the screenshot of the edited version of Qureshi's page reading that he died on July 4.

On July 3, Qureshi tested positive for the coronavirus and quarantined himself at his home.

"This afternoon I felt a slight fever and immediately quarantined myself at home. I have now tested positive for Covid 19. By the grace of Allah, I feel strong and energetic. I will continue to carry on my duties from home. Please keep me in your prayers," Qureshi had said on Twitter.

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