Islamabad braces for mega clash as Khan’s PTI plans ‘decisive’ rally, authorities announce restrictions

The Pakistani capital is bracing for a major political clash on November 24 as the party of imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan plans a massive rally on Sunday. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) says the rally in Islamabad city will be held to press the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to release the jailed leader.

On the other hand, Pakistan authorities have banned the gathering of five or more people in the capital city ahead of the protests, citing security concerns. Although the government didn’t provide any specific threat, the South Asian country has seen a surge in violence and terror activities. Some officials have also warned of militant attacks in the planned PTI rally and are negotiating with the party to postpone the gathering.

Also read: Pakistan military has no intentions of working out a deal with imprisoned former PM Imran Khan

Similar restrictions were imposed in the Pakistani capital last month following the announcement of a rally by the supporters of Imran Khan. The city was effectively put under a lockdown, forcing the protesters to move towards the outskirts.

PTI says houses of leaders being raided

Imran Khan’s party has meanwhile accused the government of raiding the houses and offices of its leaders and supporters in Lahore area.

Watch: Pakistan: Ex-Pm Imran Khan Calls For Fresh Protest

The party alleged that the workers involved in the awareness campaign regarding the Nov. 24 rally are also being targeted by the authorities.

PTI said police in Lahore detained at least seven workers, including two children, and produced them in city courts.

Imran’s warning to PTI supporters

Pakistan-based news channel Dawn reported that Imran Khan has warned its party leaders and ticket holders to “disassociate themselves from the party” if they fail to show up at the Nov. 24 rally.

Imran issued a “final call” on Nov. 13 and urged more and more people to join the Sunday rally against what he describes as 'stolen mandate', the unjust arrests of people, and the passage of the 26th amendment, which he said has strengthened a “dictatorial regime”.

“Everyone must join the protest on November 24th. If any PTI leader or ticket holder is not able to ensure their participation in the protest, they should disassociate themselves from the party because this is the decisive moment when the entire nation will come out for freedom. The nation will not accept any excuse at such a critical time,” Imran Khan wrote on social media platform X.

(With inputs from agencies)