Protests are underway as the leadership and activists of the Imran Khan-founded party head toward the federal capital. Despite roadblocks, they continue their march. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that while everyone has the right to hold a protest, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters are coming to “attack Islamabad with weapons.”
Naqvi spoke to journalists in Islamabad on Friday, emphasizing that this approach is not acceptable. “We will not allow this to happen,” he asserted. The minister had urged the PTI just a day earlier not to hold a rally at this time. He added that he would not permit any damage to properties.
On Thursday, Naqvi warned the PTI against public gatherings, especially since visits from foreign dignitaries, including the Malaysian Prime Minister, were scheduled in Islamabad. Amid its anti-government campaign, the former ruling party is protesting for the “independence” of the judiciary and the release of the former prime minister from jail.
These protests coincide with the final day of Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Pakistan and occur just before the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. In response, authorities have enforced Section 144 and the “Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024,” which regulate public assemblies in certain areas of Islamabad.
“The PTI’s top leadership should review its protest call,” Naqvi advised, stressing, “No one will be allowed for an onrush on Islamabad.” During a recent press conference, he emphasized that the security forces deployed by the government do not carry firearms. However, he noted, “You could see in videos and pictures that those coming toward Islamabad are carrying arms.”
The KP chief minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, is a Pakistani. Naqvi urged him to consider his actions, pointing out that he has an entire province under his command. “He should hold protests wherever he wants,” Naqvi said, reiterating that they have the right to protest, but not in this manner.
“I am clear in my stance that they are storming Islamabad,” he declared. Naqvi also mentioned that the government has implemented extra measures for the security of foreign guests, stating, “Providing security to those guests was crucial.”
The situation remains tense as protests loom, and the government prepares to respond.
