Thousands of supporters of Pakistan’s imprisoned former Prime Minister, Imran Khan Monday gathered on the outskirts of Islamabad, demanding his immediate release from prison.
The large rally, organized by Khan’s opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf ,PTI, marked one of the most significant demonstrations of the year, highlighting the intensifying tensions between the PTI and the current government.
Khan, who has been in prison since August 2023 following his conviction in a graft case, remains a significant figure in Pakistani politics and a chief rival to current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Despite facing over 150 criminal cases, which his party and critics argue are politically motivated, Khan’s popularity endures.
The rally, held near the Sangjani Cattle Market in the suburbs of Islamabad, was attended by thousands of PTI supporters who defied government attempts to restrict their movement. Authorities had blocked key roads with shipping containers to prevent supporters from reaching the venue, but many managed to bypass these obstacles.
The event was largely peaceful, although brief clashes between police and some activists occurred after the rally exceeded its scheduled deadline. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and several security personnel were injured in the ensuing violence.
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Addressing the rally, Ali Amin, the top elected official from the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, expressed optimism about Khan’s imminent release and issued a two-week ultimatum to the government. “God willing, we will secure the release of Imran Khan soon,” he said.
PTI leaders, including Omar Ayub Khan and Gohar Ali Khan, reiterated their commitment to securing Khan’s freedom and condemned the government’s tactics to limit the rally’s attendance. The party has announced plans to hold further rallies across the country to exert pressure on the government.
The rally was seen as a test of both the government’s and PTI’s ground power, particularly after the disputed February elections. Despite the challenges, the large turnout underscored the enduring support for Imran Khan and his party.
As the situation remains tense, the PTI has vowed to continue its struggle for Khan’s release, while the government has introduced new laws to restrict unauthorized gatherings, further escalating the political standoff.
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