RAWALPINDI: Imran Khan’s latest call for a nationwide protest on November 24 has once again shifted the focus to his political ambitions, raising concerns about his indifference to the everyday struggles of ordinary Pakistanis. The PTI founder is calling for a “final” anti-government march, but critics argue that this protest is more about his desire for power than any real concern for the nation’s growing economic crisis.
Imran Khan’s lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, announced that the PTI leadership would be participating in the protest, which is expected to take place not only in Islamabad but across Pakistan and even internationally where PTI supporters are present. Despite the worsening inflation, rising unemployment, and the suffering of millions, Khan’s focus remains firmly on challenging the government and regaining his lost political power.
Khan has set up a committee to organize the protest, but the identities of the members are being kept secret for fear of arrests. The lawyer emphasized that the committee would have the authority to call off the protest if necessary, yet it is clear that the real motivation behind this call is not about resolving the nation’s pressing issues, but about positioning himself as a leader who can disrupt the political system.
Frustration Among PTI Workers
The announcement of the protest comes at a time of growing frustration among PTI’s grassroots workers. Many of them were part of the Islamabad protest last month, which ended abruptly without any clear outcome. This left PTI supporters disillusioned, especially after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur ended the Swabi rally without setting a date for the next phase of the protest. Despite these setbacks, PTI leaders are pushing forward with plans for another protest, even though their primary concern seems to be regaining control rather than addressing the economic misery plaguing the nation.
Chaudhry also revealed that Gandapur would lead a convoy from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reiterating that there would be “no turning back” this time. But again, the question arises: why is PTI so focused on a protest when millions of Pakistanis are struggling to put food on the table? Instead of addressing the real issues of inflation, poverty, and unemployment, Imran Khan is directing his energy toward political disruption.
Demands: Power, Not People
Khan’s protest demands include the withdrawal of the controversial 26th Constitutional Amendment, the restoration of PTI’s mandate, and the release of jailed party workers. But these demands reflect his obsession with power rather than any tangible solutions to the country’s growing crises. The country is grappling with inflation and a severe economic downturn, but Khan’s solution is yet another call for mass protests rather than offering concrete proposals for economic recovery or social reform.
While Khan’s supporters may rally behind his call for a political upheaval, many ordinary Pakistanis are left questioning whether their voices are being heard at all. The majority of citizens are struggling with rising costs of living, high food prices, and a weakened currency, yet Khan seems more focused on power struggles within the political elite than addressing the real concerns of the people.
A Call to ‘Choose Freedom’
Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, echoed her brother’s message in a recent statement. She told reporters in Rawalpindi that the PTI founder had called on the people of Pakistan to decide whether they wanted to live under martial law or enjoy freedom. The appeal to “freedom” sounds noble, but it rings hollow when the very people who are being urged to protest are facing crippling inflation, healthcare crises, and a lack of basic necessities.
Imran’s call seems more about rallying his base than offering a meaningful solution to the struggles of everyday Pakistanis. The mention of judicial protection, rule of law, and the “stolen mandate” sounds like political rhetoric that does little to alleviate the hardships faced by millions of people across the country. For many, the priority should be addressing the daily challenges they face—not engaging in endless political protests.
Focus on Power, Not People
Aleema Khan also emphasized that Imran was calling on farmers, lawyers, students, civil society, and overseas Pakistanis to rise up and demand their rights. However, with no clear roadmap to tackle the nation’s financial woes, this protest appears to be more of a power struggle than a genuine effort to resolve the nation’s real issues. The country is in the midst of a severe economic crisis, and yet, the PTI seems more focused on regaining its political mandate rather than offering practical solutions.
The 26th Constitutional Amendment, which Khan and his supporters want repealed, may be a political concern, but it pales in comparison to the dire need for economic reforms, jobs, and relief for the common people. Imran Khan’s insistence on staging protests and calling for political upheaval only serves to distract from the real challenges the country faces.
No End to the Political Game
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Gandapur also spoke out, reaffirming that the protest would go ahead as planned. He assured PTI supporters that there would be “no turning back” this time. Yet, many Pakistanis are asking whether this protest will actually address their struggles, or whether it is just another political stunt aimed at securing power for Khan and his party.
As the November 24 protest draws nearer, the questions continue: Will Imran Khan’s call for protest lead to real change, or will it simply deepen the political divide while leaving the economic suffering of ordinary Pakistanis unresolved? Khan’s supporters may rally for his cause, but many remain skeptical of whether his power struggle will bring any tangible benefit to the people of Pakistan.
