PTI has called for countrywide protests for the “independence of judiciary”, with a demonstration planned at D-Chowk in Islamabad on Oct 4, despite a ban on gatherings in the city. The announcement came after KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur threatened action against PTI workers. Similar protests are also scheduled in Mianwali, Faisalabad, and Bahawalpur, followed by a rally at Minar-i-Pakistan in Lahore on Oct 5.
Under the ‘Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill 2024’, parties must appoint an event coordinator and seek permission from the district magistrate for protests. The law also allows the federal government to designate ‘red zones’ where assemblies are prohibited. PTI founder Imran Khan supported Gandapur’s stance and criticized the government for targeting his party unjustly.
He vowed to continue the struggle for real freedom and defend the judiciary. Despite PTI leaders being arrested after the last rally in Sangjani, the Islamabad High Court later released them. The protest is a stand against the suppression faced by PTI members, including Imran’s wife who is also imprisoned.
Published in Dawn, October 1st, 2024