Islamabad – Islamabad has been placed under a stringent security lockdown ahead of planned protests by supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The protests, organized by his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, are aimed at demanding Khan's release and addressing what they describe as a "rigged" election.
City Streets Blocked, Security Forces Deployed
Highways leading into the capital have been blocked with shipping containers, and heavy security forces, including police and paramilitary units in riot gear, have been deployed to key areas. The security measures are particularly concentrated around the capital’s red zone, home to critical government buildings, foreign embassies, and the parliament.
In addition to roadblocks, mobile phone services have been suspended, with Islamabad police issuing a statement banning any gatherings under legal provisions. Internet watchdog NetBlocks reported that WhatsApp services were also restricted ahead of the planned protests, further limiting communication among protestors.
PTI’s March to D Chowk
A key PTI leader and Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, who is expected to lead one of the largest convoys into Islamabad, has called on supporters to gather near the entrance to the city’s red zone at "D Chowk," a highly symbolic location for political protests. The area is adjacent to the parliament building and government offices.
In a video message, Gandapur urged PTI supporters to remain in the area until all of the party’s demands are addressed. “Khan has called on us to stay there until all our demands are met,” he said, reinforcing the party’s resolve. PTI’s primary demands include the release of Khan and other imprisoned leaders and the resignation of the current government, which they claim is illegitimate due to the results of this year's general elections.
Imran Khan’s Imprisonment and PTI’s Grievances
Imran Khan, who has been in prison since August 2023, faces multiple charges, including corruption and incitement to violence, following his ousting from office in a parliamentary vote in 2022. Khan and PTI have consistently denied the charges, asserting that they are politically motivated.
Khan’s imprisonment and the ongoing legal battles have fueled a series of protests and political instability. In addition to calls for Khan’s release, PTI is demanding broader political reforms and accountability for the alleged rigging of the 2024 elections.
Public Sentiment and Rising Tensions
The escalating protests have sparked mixed reactions among residents of Islamabad. Muhammad Asif, a 35-year-old local, expressed frustration over the continuous unrest. “These constant protests are destroying the economy and creating instability... we want the political leadership to sit together and resolve these matters,” he said, standing in front of a closed market on a street blocked by security personnel.
Tensions have run high since PTI’s last major protest in early October, which turned violent. The clash left one policeman dead, dozens of security personnel injured, and multiple arrests made. Both PTI supporters and security forces blamed each other for instigating the violence.
A Critical Moment for Pakistan’s Political Landscape
As Islamabad braces for more unrest, the political future of Imran Khan and PTI remains uncertain. While the government continues to enforce strict measures to contain the protests, the growing movement among Khan's supporters signals a deepening divide within the country’s political landscape. With security forces on high alert and the potential for further clashes, the coming days could prove pivotal for Pakistan's ongoing political crisis.
