LAHORE: The Lahore district administration has turned down Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) request to hold a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8, citing the party’s alleged violation of terms in its previous rally.
According to a notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner’s office, the denial is due to several international events scheduled in Lahore this month, including a one-day cricket series and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference.
The notification further highlighted that other major events, such as the Lahore Horse and Cattle Show, the Faiz Amn Mela, and a national cricket series, are also set to take place. Additionally, the Punjab government has sought the deployment of the army and Rangers to maintain law and order during these activities.
The administration emphasized that Minar-e-Pakistan, being a historic site, should not be used for such gatherings as it could affect its aesthetic value. It also recalled that PTI was previously granted permission for a rally on Lahore’s Ring Road on September 21, 2024, but allegedly violated the terms of the NOC.
PTI had announced plans to observe a nationwide black day and hold a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8 to mark the first anniversary of what it calls the “fraudulent general elections” of 2024.
In a video message, PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President and newly appointed Public Accounts Committee Chairman Junaid Akbar declared that the February 8 gathering would be the largest in Pakistan’s history.
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Junaid Akbar stressed the importance of ensuring the event’s success, praising Ali Amin Gandapur for taking charge of the party during a critical time. He also clarified that no financial support would be requested from Gandapur for rally expenses, urging each village council to manage transportation and worker mobilization independently.
