Under the banner of the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz Ain-e-Pakistan (TTAP), the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is set to launch its long-awaited protest movement against the “unlawful” imprisonment of party founder Imran Khan, starting Tuesday, August 5.
The day marks two years since Imran Khan’s arrest in a corruption case and will be observed as a Black Day nationwide. TTAP Secretary General Asad Qaiser announced in an emergency press conference in Swabi that peaceful protests would be held across the country under the flags of Pakistan, PTI, and a white flag symbolizing peace.
Qaiser reaffirmed the commitment to constitutional and lawful protest, insisting that any evidence against Imran Khan should be presented in a transparent, merit-based court proceeding. He criticized the judiciary’s lack of independence, claiming decisions are now swayed by the government, and described Imran as a leader who gave Pakistan a global voice and clear vision.
He argued that the ongoing legal actions against Imran are a violation of constitutional rights and democratic principles.
PTI leader Shahram Khan Tarakai echoed these sentiments, stating that PTI and TTAP are fully mobilized, with protests planned in multiple cities. He emphasized this is not a one-time protest but part of a long-term democratic struggle to uphold judicial independence, constitutional supremacy, and fundamental rights.
Qaiser called on the judiciary to ensure public and media access to hearings, and demanded a judicial commission to investigate the May 9 incidents, ensuring accountability under the law. He also questioned the state of parliament, highlighting the erosion of its authority and censorship in parliamentary speeches.
He hinted that PTI may reconsider its participation in the current parliamentary system and urged fair and transparent trials for Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi, and other PTI leaders.
In a rally in Buner, PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan said that political tensions have only intensified since May 9, with many PTI leaders facing legal challenges and disqualifications. He claimed that the demand for Imran’s release reflects the will of 70% of Pakistanis, stating, “The voice of the people is the voice of democracy.”
As per Imran Khan’s directions, PTI has finalized protest plans for August 5. Instead of a central rally or march toward Islamabad, district-level demonstrations will be held nationwide.
In Peshawar, a protest march from Hayatabad Toll Plaza to Qila Bala Hisar will take place, led by CM Ali Amin Gandapur. Similar rallies will be held in Swabi (Ambar Interchange) and Nowshera (Khairabad) from 3:30 pm till Isha prayers.
All elected members and ticket holders have been instructed to record videos of their local events and submit them to their district and regional leaderships as part of the coordinated campaign.
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