PTI
In a significant legal setback, former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has been barred from holding its planned November 24 protest in Islamabad.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) ruled against public gatherings over the weekend, citing the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, and the upcoming visit of the Belarusian president and his delegation.
The protest, described by Imran Khan as a “final call” for the “restoration” of democracy and judiciary, aimed to challenge what he termed a stolen electoral mandate, unjust arrests, and the recent 26th Constitutional Amendment.
The amendment, according to Khan, has strengthened an authoritarian regime. Since Khan’s arrest in August 2023 on multiple charges, PTI has been mobilizing nationwide protests, demanding his release and denouncing the alleged rigging of the February 8 elections.
The IHC ruling stemmed from a petition filed by a local resident, urging the court to declare the protest illegal. The petitioner argued that the demonstration could disrupt public order and pose security risks, especially with the arrival of the Belarusian president and a delegation of over 60 individuals.
Chief Justice Aamer Farooq, overseeing the case, directed authorities to enforce the law strictly and ensure no disruptions occur.
The court underscored that the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, mandates organizers of public gatherings to submit a written application at least seven days in advance. PTI had not filed such an application.
While informal communication between PTI leadership and officials was noted, no formal engagement had occurred.
The IHC ruling emphasized PTI’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly and freedom of movement, provided it complies with the law. To facilitate dialogue, the court recommended forming a committee led by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
This committee, including the Islamabad chief commissioner and other relevant officials, was tasked with engaging PTI leadership to discuss the situation and address concerns regarding the sensitive weekend.
While expressing hope for a resolution through dialogue, the court maintained that law and order must be upheld. It instructed state agencies to minimize disruptions to daily life and adhere to the 2024 Act.
The court prohibited PTI from conducting protests, rallies, or sit-ins that violate the law. A report on the matter is to be submitted by November 27.
Outside the court, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi dismissed the possibility of negotiations with PTI under current circumstances, citing the party’s alleged threats. “Threatening us and then asking for dialogue is unacceptable,” Naqvi remarked.
He clarified that no deadline for negotiations exists, as no formal talks are underway. Stressing the need for compliance, Naqvi assured reporters that the IHC order would be strictly enforced by federal agencies.
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