Khawaja Asif Faces Backlash After Inaugurating Fake Pizza Hut in Sialkot

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has become the target of intense online ridicule after he publicly inaugurated what was presented as a new Pizza Hut outlet in Sialkot Cantonment — only for the official Pizza Hut Pakistan to declare the establishment unauthorised and completely fake.

The event was carried out with full ceremonial flair: a ribbon-cutting by the minister, red carpet, floral arrangements, and media coverage, giving every appearance of an official brand launch. Photos and videos of the occasion spread rapidly across social media platforms yesterday and today.

Pizza Hut Pakistan responded promptly with a public statement clarifying the situation:

“Pizza Hut Pakistan wishes to inform our valued customers that an unauthorised outlet using the Pizza Hut name and branding has opened in Sialkot Cantonment. This outlet has no association with Pizza Hut Pakistan or Yum! Brands. It does not adhere to Pizza Hut International recipes, quality standards, food safety protocols, or operational guidelines. We have lodged a formal complaint with the concerned authorities regarding this trademark violation and misuse of our brand.”

The company’s swift denial turned what might have been a routine photo-op into a major embarrassment for the senior government figure. Social media users have flooded platforms with memes, sarcastic remarks, and humorous commentary, with many pointing out the apparent lack of due diligence before such a high-profile appearance. Phrases like “Only in Pakistan,” “Ribbon cut, reality checked,” and references to previous controversies involving the minister have trended heavily.

The incident has once again raised questions about trademark protection, brand counterfeiting, and basic verification processes for public events involving senior officials. No formal comment or clarification has yet been issued from the minister’s office or the federal government as the trolling and criticism continue to gain momentum online.