ISLAMABAD: As the PTI’s long march a week away, tensions between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have increased. The Islamabad administration has tightened security in the federal capital and placed containers and barriers as key points to foil PTI’s long march on September 27.
Authorities have intensified preparations as PTI leaders organise convoys from different parts of the country to reach the federal capital.
Five PTI lawmakers, including Senator Saifullah Niazi, Sanaullah Masti Khel, Jamal Ahsan Khan, Dawar Khan and Mohammad Ghaus, were arrested from Islamabad’s Red Zone on Monday. Sources said authorities shifted the lawmakers to an undisclosed location.
PTI leaders face arrests, FIR
In Lahore, authorities ordered the 30-day detention of Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan under the Maintenance of Public Order law. Officials said they took the action over concerns that she could threaten public safety or incite party workers.
Meanwhile, two Levies personnel sustained injuries in alleged firing by a guard of PTI lawmaker Shakil Khan in Malakand district. Authorities registered a first information report after videos of the incident surfaced. They also initiated legal proceedings against those allegedly involved.
PTI vows protest as authorities prepare
PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar said the party would hold the September 27 protest despite government measures.
Speaking to workers in Mardan, Junaid said protesters would use the motorway, Grand Trunk Road and Margalla Hills to reach Islamabad. He also used strong language while describing the party’s plans for the federal capital. In response, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif rejected Junaid’s remarks and said the government would protect Islamabad.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said Islamabad belonged to the federation, not any political party. Information Minister Atta Tarar also said authorities would enforce existing court orders regarding road closures.
Meanwhile, Islamabad administration officials have surveyed routes from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to sources, authorities plan trenches and barriers along the motorway, GT Road, 26 Number Chungi and Margalla-Taxila routes.
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