November 24 Protest
RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has hinted that the party might call off its planned protest on November 24 if there is progress in ongoing negotiations with the government.
In a statement released by his lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, following a meeting with Khan at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, it was revealed that the PTI founder would opt for celebrations instead of protests if a breakthrough occurs in the talks by the following day.
However, the lawyer emphasized that if no progress is made, PTI is prepared to go ahead with the peaceful demonstrations as initially planned.
Khan mentioned that this would be the second time he has called for a protest since the violent May 9 protests, which led to the destruction of state installations.
Despite the challenges, Khan expressed that protests were now the only viable option, highlighting the importance of political parties in maintaining unity within the country.
He also voiced concerns over the restrictions imposed on the PTI, particularly the party’s inability to hold rallies and gatherings. According to the lawyer, Khan reiterated that the success of any talks depends on the government addressing PTI’s key demands.
The PTI leader clarified that claims regarding the party spending Rs1 billion on the planned protests were baseless. Faisal Chaudhry further shared that Khan had set a deadline for the negotiations to show tangible progress by tomorrow.
If talks were to take place, Khan emphasized they must involve those with real power and authority to make decisions. He also made it clear that the success of the dialogue would depend on the acceptance of PTI’s demands, acknowledging that both sides must make an effort to reach a positive outcome.
The party’s decision to stage a protest in Islamabad has been a point of contention with the incumbent government.
PTI has been at odds with the ruling party for months, particularly over allegations of a stolen mandate in the February 8 elections. This ongoing conflict has led to multiple marches on the federal capital, followed by crackdowns on PTI leaders and workers.
In anticipation of the protest, the Punjab government has taken a firm stance, warning that it will deal with PTI protesters as it would with terrorists.
In response, the government has increased security measures, with more than 10,700 police personnel from across Punjab placed on standby.
The police have been equipped with tear gas, rubber bullets, and anti-riot gear to maintain order. Additionally, the Islamabad administration has requisitioned 8,000 additional police personnel from Punjab, Sindh, and Kashmir.
To prevent large gatherings, Section 144, which bans assemblies of more than five people, has been imposed in Islamabad for the next two months.
Furthermore, the Rangers and the Frontier Corps (FC) have already been deployed, with the capital likely to be sealed off using shipping containers by November 22. These heightened security measures indicate the seriousness with which both sides are preparing for the potential standoff.
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