Imran Khan’s Lawyer Teases Possibility of Calling Off Nov 24 Protest If Demands Are Met!
RAWALPINDI: In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, has hinted that the much-anticipated November 24 protest could be called off—but only if the party’s key demands are met.
Following a meeting with Imran Khan at Adiala Jail, Faisal Chaudhry revealed, “If significant progress is made in talks by tomorrow, there could be celebrations instead of protests.”
He added that this was the second protest call made by Khan since the May 9 incident, which saw violent attacks on state installations. Khan reiterated that protests were now the only option left to pressurize the government, stressing the critical role of political parties in maintaining unity in the country.
Khan also expressed frustration over the government-imposed restrictions, claiming that PTI was banned from holding rallies or gatherings. “I have always advocated for peaceful protests,” he asserted.
The PTI leader has set a deadline for talks to reach an agreement by tomorrow, stating that dialogue will only occur with those in real power. “The success of any negotiations depends on the acceptance of PTI’s demands,” Chaudhry noted, adding that the cancellation of the protest hinges on this.
Amid these developments, PTI has vigorously denied rumors that it plans to spend Rs 1 billion on the protest.
The PTI has announced the November 24 protest as a “do-or-die” demonstration to demand Khan’s release and the return of its alleged stolen mandate from the February 8 elections. Tensions have been escalating between PTI and the government, with frequent confrontations and marches in the federal capital.
In response, the Punjab government has warned of a strong crackdown, equating the handling of protesters to dealing with terrorists.
Security Measures Heightened
In preparation for the protest, the government has stepped up security measures, with over 10,700 police officers deployed across Punjab and additional reinforcements sought from other provinces. Riot control gear, including tear gas and rubber bullets, has been made available to maintain order.
Meanwhile, the Islamabad administration has imposed Section 144, banning gatherings of more than five people, and additional security personnel from Punjab, Sindh, and Kashmir are on standby. The capital may be sealed off with shipping containers ahead of the protest.
