PTI’s Solo Protest in Islamabad Faces Opposition Alliance’s Reluctance
As the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) gears up for its high-stakes protest in Islamabad, cracks have appeared in the opposition alliance. The Mahmood Khan Achakzai-led Tehreek-e-Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) has declined to join the demonstration, emphasizing the need for consensus and a well-prepared nationwide movement instead of PTI’s abrupt march.
Sources indicate that TTAP leaders, including Sardar Akhtar Mengal and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, were in favor of a unified opposition strategy. They proposed thorough mobilization and a dialogue-based approach rather than a rushed protest. The PTI’s unilateral decision to proceed with its “do-or-die” demonstration has left other opposition parties skeptical of its effectiveness and potential consequences.
Government Clampdown and Opposition Division
The federal government, citing security concerns and the ongoing visit of the Belarusian president, has sealed roads leading to Islamabad and disrupted internet services in key cities like Karachi, Peshawar, and Islamabad. The Islamabad High Court’s recent order to adhere to the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, further restricts PTI’s plans, yet the party has refused to defer its protest.
Meanwhile, PTI remains firm in its demand for Imran Khan’s release, vowing to continue protesting until this goal is achieved. At a strategy meeting in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PTI lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to the protest while keeping negotiations as a secondary option.
Opposition’s Reservations on PTI’s Approach
TTAP leaders argue that a sudden march without broader opposition support risks being counterproductive. Instead, they advocate for a coordinated, countrywide effort with carefully built momentum, followed by peaceful negotiations or a long march as a last resort.
PTI’s Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram defended the party’s decision, stating, “It is our party’s decision to protest,” but offered no explanation for TTAP’s refusal to participate.
As PTI pushes ahead with its protest plans, the lack of support from allied opposition groups could weaken its impact and lead to a political setback for the party.
