Warm Reception at Airport Amid Political Mobilisation
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi arrived in Karachi on Friday, marking the start of his three-day visit to Sindh. The visit is part of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) nationwide street mobilisation campaign.
Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani received the KP chief minister at Jinnah International Airport. A video released by Ghani’s office showed the two leaders exchanging greetings and embracing each other. The Sindh minister also presented Afridi with a traditional Sindhi cap and Ajrak as a gesture of welcome.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja also reached Karachi ahead of key party activities. Videos shared by PTI on social media platform X showed a large number of supporters gathered at the airport. Party workers chanted slogans and waved flags to welcome the visiting chief minister.
The arrival comes at a politically sensitive time as PTI intensifies its street movement demanding the release of party founder Imran Khan and raising concerns over governance and democratic rights.
PTI Alleges Police Action Ahead of Reception
Ahead of CM Afridi’s arrival, PTI spokesperson Mohammed Ali Bozdar alleged that Sindh police dismantled tents installed outside the party’s Karachi head office near the Nursery area. The tents were reportedly set up to receive the KP chief minister.
Bozdar clarified that the Insaf Secretariat had not been sealed, contrary to earlier claims made on social media. He said police removed the tents but later assured party leaders that the setup would be restored.
According to Bozdar, police and Sindh government officials also assured the party that it would be allowed to hold gatherings, provided roads were not blocked. Dawn attempted to seek a response from police authorities, but no official comment was received.
PTI maintains that such actions are aimed at discouraging political activity. The party insists its mobilisation efforts are peaceful and within constitutional limits.
Public Gathering at Mazar-i-Quaid and Packed Schedule
Before departing for Karachi, CM Afridi said on X that he was bringing Imran Khan’s “message” to the people. He urged citizens to support PTI’s street movement and announced a series of activities during his visit.
Afridi confirmed that a major public gathering will be held at Mazar-i-Quaid on Sunday at 4:30pm. He claimed it would be the largest political gathering in Karachi’s history.
Initially, Sindh authorities cited traffic congestion and public inconvenience while denying permission for the rally. However, Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah later announced that the gathering would be allowed. He said peaceful political activity could not be stopped but warned against violations of the law.
During his stay, CM Afridi will meet PTI leaders, lawyers, business figures, and journalists. He is also scheduled to meet Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Engagements include visits to the Karachi Press Club, FPCCI, and street activities in South, Korangi, and Malir districts.
On January 10, Afridi will travel to Hyderabad. He will be welcomed in Jamshoro and address lawyers, farmers, and media representatives. PTI leaders say the visit aims to energise supporters and strengthen coordination across provinces.
