Thousands of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf protesters have stormed Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, pressing for the release of Imran Khan. The former prime minister is now behind bars for more than a year. He has remained an important part of Pakistan’s political landscape despite allegations against him and his political party PTI.
Clashes flared as the protesting convoy advanced through barricades toward D-Chowk, a symbolic place close to government buildings. Tear gas and rubber bullets were used by security forces in a bid to disband the protest. Demonstrators refuse to back down and are pushing their demands including the release of Imran Khan. They also press on the cancellation of February election results that demonstrators claim were manipulated and fake.
Protestors demand release of Imran Khan, soldiers killed during clash
In a disturbing incident, four paramilitary soldiers were killed in a hit-and-run accident that the Khan side of the dispute blamed on his supporters, though independent verification of the statement is awaited. The Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, termed the protests as “extremism” and attacked the protesters, saying it was the protesters who wanted bloodshed and not change. Nevertheless, the protest has coalesced under one banner—getting Imran Khan out.
From his prison cell, Khan’s influence is not unsettled. His party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was banned from directly contesting elections but emerged as the largest bloc in February by running candidates as independents. The protesters also believe that his imprisonment and the election results form part of a larger design to sideline him; as a result, his demands for releasing Imran Khan go further.
We are here because Khan said, says protestor
The marchers reached D-Chowk, defying heavy restrictions, blocked roads, and internet shutdowns. Protesters have vowed to remain until Khan is freed and addresses them in person. “We’re here because Imran Khan told us to fight for our future,” one protester declared.
Despite the government’s offer of an alternative venue for protest, demonstrators remain adamant. Schools and colleges have been closed as tensions flare. The government’s strong measures, including containers and extra police, reflect its concern regarding the continuing unrest amid the release of Imran Khan.
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