Islamabad Police Warns About PTI Protests On May 9

Islamabad Police has issued a firm warning against individuals involved in unlawful activities on May 9, stating that strict measures will be taken against those violating section 144.

The capital administration has declared that no protests or rallies will be allowed in the city without prior permission, as section 144 is currently in effect, prohibiting all forms of gatherings.This announcement comes in response to reports of planned protests by PTI and other groups on May 9. To maintain peace and prevent violence, the government has prohibited all public gatherings in the city.

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced a nationwide protest on May 9, following a significant meeting of party members. During a parliamentary party meeting at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad, PTI General Secretary Omar Ayub assured a peaceful and comprehensive protest across Pakistan.

At the meeting, Opposition Leader Omar Ayub acknowledged the challenges faced by PTI members, including arrests, and emphasized PTI founder Imran Khan’s message of perseverance. He commended the party’s workers for their steadfastness.

May 9 Turmoil

On May 9 last year, Pakistan experienced violent riots following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. PTI supporters’ protests turned into riots, causing extensive damage to government and military installations.

In response, the caretaker government and armed forces launched a crackdown, which included blocking mobile internet services and arresting PTI leaders, activists, and perceived allies in the media and legal sectors.

Imran Khan, who had been in custody since August of the previous year, was arrested on May 9, 2023, with the government accusing him of orchestrating the violence.The PTI demonstrations resulted in arson, vandalism, and attacks on government and military facilities. Anti-terrorism laws were invoked, and rioters faced prosecution, with police resorting to live ammunition, resulting in multiple casualties.

Subsequently, numerous PTI activists, including party leaders, were detained, and trials of civilians commenced, drawing criticism for lack of transparency and human rights abuses.