PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated on Saturday that the party would determine its stance on proceeding with tomorrow’s planned protest after internal discussions, following a communication from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Radio Pakistan reported that Naqvi contacted Gohar to address the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) recent ruling, which declared the protest unlawful.
Last week, PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan issued a “final call” for the protest, citing grievances over alleged electoral manipulation, unjust arrests, and the passage of the 26th Amendment, which he claimed bolstered a “dictatorial regime.”
After a detailed exchange, Gohar assured Naqvi that the party’s final decision would be conveyed after internal consultations. Naqvi emphasized the government’s obligation to comply with the IHC ruling, which prohibits public gatherings, sit-ins, or rallies.
The interior minister also briefed Gohar on the arrival of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko and his 80-member delegation, scheduled to stay in Islamabad from November 24 to 27, stressing the importance of maintaining order during their visit.
In response to concerns raised by local traders about potential disruptions, IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq directed authorities to ensure law and order. The court instructed the Interior Ministry to form a committee, led by Naqvi, to engage with PTI leaders for a peaceful resolution.
Despite these measures, PTI leaders remained defiant about proceeding with the protest. Imran’s wife, Bushra Bibi, conveyed his message from jail, insisting the protest date would not change unless he was released and provided further directives.
Conflicting statements emerged within PTI regarding negotiations with the government. While some leaders denied talks, others hinted at discussions “at higher levels.”
Government’s Response and Security Measures
In a series of press briefings, government ministers warned against the protest, with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar threatening strict legal action against participants. He denied ongoing negotiations, clarifying that Naqvi’s contact with PTI was solely to comply with the IHC order.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari highlighted the court’s clear directives against protests, criticizing PTI’s actions for allegedly disrupting foreign investment opportunities, including Belarus’ collaboration with Pakistan for tractor manufacturing.
To counter the protest, public gatherings have been banned in Punjab until Monday, in Rawalpindi until Tuesday, and in Islamabad for two months.
Islamabad police have implemented a robust security plan, deploying over 6,000 officers, reinforced by 21,500 personnel from other forces. Key city entry points and roads will be sealed off with 1,200 containers.
In Rawalpindi, over 6,000 anti-riot police, supported by Rangers, have been stationed, with the city being sealed at 70 locations using containers and barriers.
These measures aim to prevent disruptions and maintain public order during the scheduled visit of the Belarusian delegation and amidst the potential political turmoil.
