The Islamabad authorities have reimposed Section 144, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people for the next two months, following a planned protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on November 24. The official notification, issued by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, is aimed at maintaining public order ahead of the PTI’s demonstration in the capital. The restrictions apply to all types of gatherings, including religious, political, and public meetings.
This move follows the expiration of a previous Section 144 order on November 17, which was initially imposed to curb air pollution in Islamabad during the ongoing smog crisis.
Also Read: Section 144 Imposed in Rawalpindi Ahead of PTI Rally
PTI has finalized its plans for a “peaceful” protest, with the party set to mobilize convoys from across Pakistan toward Islamabad. The protest aims to converge on the capital from various provincial routes, culminating in a sit-in, with D-Chowk being a possible location for the protest. PTI leaders have emphasized that the protest will be a peaceful political struggle and is rooted in their constitutional right to freedom of speech and protest.
The protest has been described by PTI as a critical moment for the party’s future, with Imran Khan declaring that it will determine who remains in the party and who does not. Supporters are being urged to participate in large convoys, document the event, and capture video footage of the protest.
