A large march demanding the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan reached Islamabad’s outskirts on Monday, according to officials and Khan’s party. The demonstration sparked reports of clashes in other areas as tensions escalated.
For two days, authorities imposed a strict security lockdown in Islamabad, barricading highways with shipping containers to block the protesters. The marchers, led by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, planned to march on parliament for a sit-in protest.
Roads Blocked, Transport Suspended
Heavy contingents of police and paramilitary forces in riot gear patrolled blocked roads and streets in the capital. Public transport between cities was also halted in Punjab province to keep protesters away, officials and witnesses reported.
“We won’t let them storm the capital,” said Uzma Bukhari, the provincial information minister. She added that around 80 of Khan’s supporters were arrested. Clashes in Punjab left several police officers injured, Bukhari stated at a press conference.
Security Tightens Amid High-Profile Visit
Islamabad increased security ahead of a visit by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who was set to arrive on Monday. Meanwhile, authorities banned gatherings, closed schools in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and reported slow internet and WhatsApp services.
PTI accused the government of using excessive force, claiming hundreds of workers and leaders were detained. “They are even firing live bullets,” said PTI leader Shaukat Yousafzai in a televised interview.
Protest Aims to Free Imran Khan
This protest, described by Khan as the “final call,” follows many similar demonstrations since his imprisonment in August 2023. A previous protest in October also turned violent.
Khan’s third wife, Bushra Bibi, and a key ally, Ali Amin Gandapur, led a rally that reached Islamabad’s outskirts on Sunday night, PTI confirmed.
Imran Khan, ousted from office in 2022 after a fallout with Pakistan’s military, faces charges ranging from corruption to incitement of violence. Both he and PTI deny the allegations. Pakistan’s military, which has significant influence over the country’s politics, plays a major role in determining leadership in the nation of 241 million.
