In a statement on Thursday, PTI General Secretary Salman Akram Raja clarified that the party’s rally will only take place in Swabi, emphasizing its peaceful nature with no intent to provoke violence or clashes. Speaking at Islamabad’s Judicial Complex, Raja explained that the protest will occur at the union council and tehsil levels, with local gatherings for demonstrations.
Raja dismissed the cases against PTI leaders as baseless and reiterated the party’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and judicial independence. He pledged to oppose any attacks on the judiciary and vowed to challenge the legal actions against PTI members.
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On the political front, Raja expressed hope that JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman would align with the public against “fascist” policies. Acknowledging Maulana’s political acumen, Raja suggested he would ultimately side with the people. He also noted PTI’s willingness to collaborate with other parties on shared goals, particularly in defending democracy and justice.
Addressing the refusal to hold a rally at Lahore’s Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8 due to overlapping events, including an international conference and a cricket match requiring heightened security, Raja confirmed PTI’s plan to continue peaceful protests locally in Swabi as scheduled.
