Today, Lahore is bracing for a showdown as the PTI plans to hold a protest at Minar-i-Pakistan to demand lower inflation, judicial independence, and the release of Imran Khan. The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 and is ready to crackdown on any violators. Rangers have been deployed to maintain security, and the government has already detained 600 PTI workers.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is leading the charge against the PTI supporters, holding meetings to ensure a strong crackdown. The central PTI leadership has instructed its Lahore chapter to save their strength for the Lahore power show. Security measures have been heightened with the ban on political gatherings and pillion riding. Police stations are on high alert, and the government is monitoring PTI workers’ movements closely.
The PTI remains defiant, planning surprises for the government and celebrating Imran Khan’s birthday at the protest. With tensions rising, Lahore awaits the outcome of today’s events.
Published in Dawn, October 5th, 2024