The country is gearing up for a fresh wave of protests as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced plans to demonstrate across Pakistan on August 5, calling for the release of its founder, Imran Khan, and relief for citizens burdened by inflation.
The former ruling party has been demanding the release of Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned for almost a year. The deposed prime minister was arrested in Lahore on August 5, 2023, after being sentenced to three years in prison for illegally selling state gifts.
PTI stalwart Asad Qaiser made the protest announcement during a press conference on Sunday, alongside the party’s Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan and other leaders in Islamabad. “August 5 marks the day of PTI founder’s arrest, we will stage protests on that day,” Qaiser stated, referring to Imran Khan’s arrest in the Toshakhana case.
Qaiser lamented the ongoing crackdown against the party, alleging that PTI lawmakers and social media activists are facing a “vicious witch-hunt.” He urged the Supreme Court to take suo motu notice of the matter, citing the court’s recent ruling on reserved seats. On July 12, the Supreme Court allowed PTI to receive seats in the assemblies reserved for women and minorities, directing the party to submit a list of eligible candidates within 15 days.
However, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have filed a review petition against the SC ruling. In the meantime, authorities have continued to detain PTI leaders and activists on various charges. Qaiser called for an end to the “baseless cases” against them and criticized the pressure on 41 MNAs to quit the party.
PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan also criticized the current government’s treatment of PTI lawmakers, alleging that party workers and leaders were being made to disappear. He condemned the ongoing “fascism” and mentioned the possibility of a sit-in at D-Chowk, Islamabad, as part of their future strategy.
Omar reiterated that fresh elections were the only solution to the country’s problems, emphasizing the need for all political parties to unite against what he described as a “fake and mandate-less government.”
The upcoming protests mark a significant moment in Pakistan’s political landscape as PTI continues to push for Imran Khan’s release and broader political reforms.
I am an accomplished graduate of Strategic Studies, driven by a fervent dedication to comprehending global affairs and devising impactful strategies. Equipped with a comprehensive skill set encompassing research, critical thinking, and persuasive communication, I possess a distinctive viewpoint and an unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive decision-making processes. As a versatile individual, I excel in collaborating with diverse groups in various settings, leveraging my strong interpersonal abilities to adapt seamlessly to new environments and surmount any challenges that arise. With a passion for contributing to strategic initiatives, I am eager to leverage my expertise and drive to effect positive change within the field.
