Social media users and journalists criticised Federal Minister for Water Resources Faisal Vawda for carrying a gun when he arrived at the Chinese Consulate. Faisal Vawda took to Twitter to respond to the criticism. “I was informed as I was in the vicinity and I further informed the relevant agencies. As a Pakistani I didn’t shy away. It’s my right to use my licenced weapons for self-defence. At least I’m not a coward like many hiding behind keyboards,” Vawda tweeted. Vawda had arrived at the consulate shortly after the attack and informed reporters that he had reached the site on the directives of Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan. When asked by a reporter if he was ready to take part in the operation, Faisal Vawda replied yes. “I have a Glock and a lot of other things. In sha Allah this is our country and we will fight for it,” Vadwa said when asked about the weapon he was carrying. Published in Daily Times, November 24th 2018.