ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and supporters are preparing for a march to Islamabad, answering what they describe as Imran Khan’s call to “break the shackles of slavery,” with the party pushing for his release.
Despite strong warnings and heavy security measures from the government, PTI is moving forward with its planned protest, which is expected to target the twin cities. Federal government officials, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, have cautioned PTI that no sit-ins or protests will be allowed in Islamabad during the visit of the Belarusian President and his delegation, who are expected to arrive today. Naqvi emphasized that the government would strictly enforce the Islamabad High Court’s order, which prohibits public gatherings over the weekend.
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In response, PTI has accused the government of turning Pakistan into a “war zone” to suppress peaceful protests. A PTI spokesperson reaffirmed the party’s commitment to exercising its constitutional right to peaceful protest, criticizing the government for deploying troops and blocking roads to prevent demonstrations. PTI leaders also condemned the government’s actions, which they say are stripping citizens of their rights to movement, trade, and communication.
Naqvi reportedly reached out to PTI leaders in an attempt to discuss the possibility of calling off the protest, but Barrister Gohar Ali, in an interview, denied these claims, stating that only Imran Khan could decide whether the protest would proceed.
As the march progresses, travel disruptions have been reported in Lahore, where the intercity bus network has been suspended, especially on routes leading to Islamabad. Commuters have faced significant delays, and increased security has been deployed at Lahore Railway Station due to a surge in passengers trying to reach their destinations. Several planned events, including weddings, have been canceled due to these disruptions.
PTI’s protest is seen as a critical moment in the party’s ongoing struggle against what they perceive as an undemocratic and oppressive government. Supporters remain determined, undeterred by the government’s threats and efforts to prevent the protest.
