Protests Erupt Across Pakistan Demanding Release of Jailed Former Prime Minister
Pakistani authorities cracked down on protesters as the main opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), organized rallies in various cities across the country. Supporters of the incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan took to the streets in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and other parts of Pakistan demanding his release.
Police used tear gas and batons to disperse the protesters, leading to the arrest of dozens of Khan’s supporters. The PTI is calling for the release of the jailed former prime minister, as well as advocating for the independence of the judiciary and protection of the Constitution.
Imran Khan, who denies multiple charges including corruption and terrorism, is currently seeking bail in Rawalpindi. The ruling alliance is expected to propose controversial constitutional amendments in parliament, sparking further tensions with the opposition.
The PTI alleges that the government is interfering with the judiciary by blocking the senior-most Supreme Court judge from becoming Chief Justice. The situation remains tense as both sides are locked in a power struggle.