New Delhi: Pakistan’s political tensions have intensified after former prime minister Imran Khan completed three years in prison, with his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announcing a major protest march towards Islamabad if demands for his release are not addressed.
The announcement came as PTI supporters held demonstrations across the country, leading to a police crackdown in several areas where more than 100 party workers were reportedly arrested.
PTI Announces Islamabad March On September 27
The main PTI gathering was held in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the party is currently in power. Addressing supporters, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Suhail Afridi said the party had exhausted legal and judicial options and would now use its constitutional right to peaceful protest.
Afridi said PTI’s primary demands include speedy hearings of cases against Imran Khan and his wife, along with restoration of meetings with lawyers, doctors, relatives and party leaders.
He claimed that if justice was delivered, Khan could be released quickly. Otherwise, PTI supporters from across Pakistan would march towards Islamabad on September 27.
Police Action Against PTI Protesters
As PTI workers organised rallies in different cities, police launched action against protesters. In Punjab, demonstrations in cities including Lahore, Mianwali and Rawalpindi were reportedly dispersed by police. Several PTI workers were detained during protests demanding Khan’s release.
Some journalists covering the demonstrations also alleged mistreatment during the police action, leading to criticism from media groups.
PTI Leaders Raise Prison Condition Concerns
Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan said the campaign for his release had entered a new phase and further action would be announced soon. PTI leaders also alleged that Khan had been denied regular meetings and proper medical facilities in prison.
The party has repeatedly claimed that the cases against Khan are politically motivated, an allegation rejected by the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Amnesty International Raises Rights Concerns
Amnesty International has also urged Pakistani authorities to ensure Khan’s rights, including access to fair legal procedures, healthcare and family visits.
Imran Khan was arrested on August 5, 2023, remains imprisoned while facing multiple legal cases. The latest PTI announcement has added fresh pressure to Pakistan’s already tense political environment, with the proposed Islamabad march likely to become a major test for the government and opposition.