Imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated his resolve to persist in his demands, including repealing the 26th Constitutional Amendment, as his supporters continue their march to Islamabad, demanding his release.
“Fight till the last ball! We won’t back down until our demands are fulfilled,” Khan stated in a message from jail on Tuesday, which was later shared on Facebook.
His remarks coincided with the arrival of thousands of supporters in the federal capital. The march, led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Khan’s wife, reached the outskirts of Islamabad’s heavily guarded red zone before being pushed back by security forces.
Clashes between protesters and law enforcement led to the deaths of at least six people, including four paramilitary personnel.
The government has vowed to maintain order, with operations underway near D-Chowk and streetlights in the area switched off, according to on-ground reporters.
Khan commended his supporters’ efforts, accusing the Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi of directing security forces to use tear gas and live ammunition against peaceful protesters.
“They will be held accountable!” he declared, emphasizing that the demonstrators had not only remained nonviolent but had even aided police and Rangers in distress.
Imran Khan extended gratitude to overseas Pakistanis for their mobilization efforts, financial contributions, and holding large-scale protests abroad. He also lauded his party’s social media team for their dedication.
In response to threats of being tried in a military court, Khan said, “Do what you must; I will not waver.” He urged more supporters to join the protest at D-Chowk, reiterating his call for peaceful demonstration.
