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PTI peace march fails to enter Waziristan
Rally barred from entering Waziristan, Imran Khan addresses rally in Tank.
Imran Khan, head of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), waves to his supporters as he leads a peace march against US drone strikes from Islamabad to South Waziristan.
TANK: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan addressed a rally against US drone strikes in Tank after the party’s peace march failed to enter Waziristan on Sunday.
Khan and his followers had bypassed road blocks to reach Tank, defying official warnings, and then headed towards Kotkai in South Waziristan. On reaching the Waziristan border, the rally was stopped by Pakistan Army at Manzai Checkpost, as tweeted by Dr Awab Alvi of PTI.
The caravan returned back to Tank, where Khan addressed the participants.
Addressing the rally in Tank, Khan said that several innocent people were arrested on charges of terrorism in the war against terror. He said that the rally returned from Waziristan border as it was not possible to return from the area before sunset, said PTI’s official account on Twitter.
The account further quoted Khan as saying that he was concerned about the safety of the rally participants.
He added that the US drone strikes were in violation of human rights.
“We will spend money on the people of our tribal areas and provide them education… The locals will not have to go to any other place, they will get all opportunities in Waziristan only,” Khan stated.
Khan said that it won’t be long till he gives a call for a rally in Islamabad. “To save the country, we will head towards Islamabad one day. We will make a new Pakistan.”
The rally was also earlier stopped by Frontier Corps at one of their check posts in Tank and media was barred from coverage for around an hour.
Authorities earlier said they will not be allowed to enter the tribal belt – where missiles fired by US drones routinely target militants – for security reasons and blocked the road to Tank with shipping containers.
But for reasons that were not immediately clear police removed the containers, allowing the convoy – which appears to be smaller than the size initially predicted by organisers – to approach Tank.
“It’s our right to go to our people,” said student Fakhruddin Shinwari, accusing the Pakistani government of trying to hide the real situation in the tribal belt.
“There’s no security risk. The main factor is if Imran Khan goes to Waziristan the real situation made by the United States and Pakistan will be seen. There are no terrorists there – it will be shown to be a lie.”
There was a heavy security presence along the road to Tank, which a senior police officer had said earlier was not safe and targeted by roadside bombings.
Khan earlier on Sunday urged activists to remain peaceful and to seek no confrontation with the authorities.
“We are already successful in our mission,” he told the crowd. “Your voice has reached the world over.”
Medea Benjamin, leader of a delegation from the US peace group CodePink, apologised for the drone attacks, saying: “We are so grateful that you understand there are Americans in solidarity with you and against our government policy.”
PTI plans to proceed to the village of Kotkai in South Waziristan, notorious as a place where Taliban commander Qari Hussain – said to have been killed by a drone missile in 2010 – used to train suicide bombers.
Clive Stafford Smith, the British head of the legal lobby group Reprieve, said that whether or not the group reached its intended destination was irrelevant.
“It’s already a wonderful success,” he told reporters. “It doesn’t matter what happens from here on. We’ve generated a huge amount of publicity not just in Pakistan but across the world.”
Khan, who is campaigning ahead of general elections next year, has made opposition to the drone programme a key plank of PTI policy.
Critics accuse him of merely trying to further his own career and of ignoring both atrocities blamed on militants and abuses by the Pakistani army.
While he is a growing political force, challenging feudal and industrial elites who traditionally dominate in Pakistan, there is huge scepticism about his ability to translate popularity into parliamentary seats.
Kifayetullah, the political commissioner of Dera Ismail Khan who uses one name, told AFP Saturday that it was “out of the question” that the protesters would be allowed to enter Waziristan because of security fears.
View a slideshow of pictures from today’s rally here.
Read more:
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Imran khan you are Brave Leader………
Me , my friends and relatives will vote for PTI ( Tehreek-e-Insaf )
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Prime Minister IMRAN KHAN :)Recommend
ARY GEO REPORTING 30KM LONG MARCH.. Do you even know how many ppl come up in 30Km if line individually.. its 6000Recommend
At least 50,000 and not 1,000. Please correct.
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Long Live IMRAN KHAN..
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Long live IK! Awesome!
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Show us in pictures please!
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IK you have shut the mouth of your rivals. You have achieved whatever u want. Pakistani nation proud on u.
You are like another Quid -e- Azam and Allama Iqbal for Us.
May u live long and make Pakistan prosper.Recommend
So I was just visiting twitter and am seriously disappointed by Pakistani twitter members. Seriously guys I really do not like Imran Khan either; his policies are too simple his views on women rights are narrow and he is looking for popularity. But just once can we forget about who the leader is. The issue is much bigger than that. I was hoping that Pakistanis on twitter facebook etc. will be able to at least raise some attention on drone attacks but no. They go crazy when it is a cricket match or a football game but just this once when it comes to actually helping our innocent country members why the silence on social media.
Even if you think collateral damage from drone attacks is okay just think about every single time our sovereignty is violated when a drone enters our air space. At least care about that.
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A man with guts..True leader.
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1000 people only ? thats few !
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Umm, 1000 supporters? Are you serious. There were at least a few hundred cars in the convoy so am sure it was more than just a 1000 supporters.
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Jiay Imran.
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I’ll join his party if he shows the same resolve against militants and terrorists who have killed 40,000 of my people, blown up hundreds of schools and have brought Pakistan of its knees. that is the core problem, solve that Mr. Khan and you will end the menace of drones and not vice versa. Till then this remains only a cheap publicity stunt for votes.
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You are a BRAVE MAN Imran Khan. I salute you and all who have followed you to Waziristan. I will vote for you InshAllah.
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Imran Khan is the only leader who is the voice of the people of Pakistan! He is soul and the dream of the young people of Pakistan!
Imran Khan Zindabad. Pakistan Paindabad!
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i love pti.
IK is real hero.Recommend
i love PTI
IK is real hero.Recommend
Only 1000?????????????
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My Leader – Nation is so proud of you….
Vote for PTI – Vote for New Pakistan
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Looks strange!Recommend
Brave ? What did he do, drive from one part of Pakistan to another ? That’s bravery ?
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Long Live Imran Khan!
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Long live IK and PTI!
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The operative part is “fails to enter Waziristan”. He could have chosen any of the 17 routes to enter Waziristan if he had the guts. And remember he started by claiming he will “march to North Waziristan. How easy it is to fool Pakistanis !
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IK rocks, long live PTI
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@Jat:
How about you go and concentrate on indian politics and drama rather than trolling around here. Your irrelevant opinions are not needed
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Me, My Family, My relatives will vote the man Who don’t take U turns and Obviuosly IK is a man of U Turns.
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What is the proof that the Jews are behind Imran Khan’s march? Fazlur Rahman should come forward and show it if he has it. If not let him be careful when he makes allegations.
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Shame on you people seriously. Lets assume it is a political stunt, but we as a tribal are more than happy with this “public stunt”. Atleast for a day the whole Pakistan was watching and talking about Waziristan just because of Imran Khan and PTI. Why don’t you guys speak when people from my land dies in a drone attack. What makes you keep quiet then. I am thankful to Imran Khan for supporting us and telling the world what we have to go through each and every day of our lives. Thank you and I don’t care what these morons say, me and my people’s vote is def going in Imran Khan’s favour.
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Atleast 150,000…correction please! And the headline itself is misleading. Long live IK!
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Jat: its very easy unfortunately to fools pakistanis. people have forgot the drones and talking abt IK success???. seems the army and government i.e the US did not let him go further. seems that maybe the all TTP is not in the americans pocket like it is portrated sometimes. Anyway the rally was a big flop. i really dont understand the comments above.
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“Maulana” Fazlur Rahman commented adversely about this march and Imran Khan. Whatever the good the former has against his name seems to be eroding progressively.
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@Jat:
He did try. So give him some credit.
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@Jat:
Pakistanis are large hearted and they give credit wherever due!
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@Jat“How easy it is to fool Pakistanis !”
Just as easy as commenting from the safety of your bedroom. And “the operative part is” that he took a practical step for those he speaks for. I hope you had a good coffee while you commented this.Recommend
Will it stop drone atacks or just publicity? Only time will tell.
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The heading shd be PTI march not allowed into waziristan to give unbias image of ET. IKs team is much better than other parties though there is always room for improvement
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End of drama. Imran must ensure that all actors and staff return home safe and sound. He has a habit of leaving people leaving behind.
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@abid: “… seems the army and government i.e the US did not let him go further. seems that maybe the all TTP is not in the americans pocket like it is portrated sometimes. ” Maybe all of these, including the TTP did not want him to go forward for the same and/or different reasons. No proof that TTP always has different objectives than the Govt and the USA.
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@Aahjiz BayNawa: Agreed, he would have deserved lots of credit for trying. But did he really ? The purpose of the march was to go to North Waziristan, to show the media that there were no terrorists there, to talk to TTP to convince them to join the mainstream, to show the “gora” media that drones were killing innocent people.
Did he accomplish any of the above ? No. Did he reach North Waziristan ? No. Did he even reach South Waziristan ? No.
It is like I drive from Delhi to Chandigarh, with full drama and then claim I have achieved something great and that I am so brave. Sorry am not that naive to be taken in by this.
The fact is he got cold feet, and he stopped where he felt he was very safe. Some leader !!
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IK our HERO !!!
LONG LIVE IMRAN KHAN….
LONG LIVE PAKISTAN….
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for last 3 yrs, IK has been terming NS this and that because he brought judiciary rally back from gujranwala enroute to islamabad. now he himself has brought his rally back from tank enroute to waziristan. i m confused, whts the difference. NS returned at least after getting judges reinstated. Has obama announced to stop drone?
may be this rally can be compared with lawyers’ first rally headed by aitazaz ahsan.
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Except Pakistani media and BBC urdu service, no one in international media mentioned one line about this drama. Imran’s supporters did not go out to accompany him in peace march. They kept sitting with their computers and chatting. Nothing changed on ground.
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Out of 10 Million members (mind you, most of em’ are ghosts), Pity Tehreek and its Cult Chairman can only call-upon a couple of thousand of em’?!!! As the saying goes, “You can copy CNIC’s but not a real human being.” :D :D
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@abid
How was it flop? IK promised and marched, he reached till waziristan and was stopped, instead of creating a law and order situation he accessed right that his goal of bringing worldwide awareness and solidarity with tribal pakistanis have been achieved. Hence he did the jalsa in Tank which got worldwide coverage? A peaceful rally which achieves all its goals without a single incident is a flop? what logic sir ji :)
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I am not sure whether Imran Khan is angry or relieved that he wasn’t allowed to enter South Waziristan!
I think relieved!
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@abid:
You say: “TTP is not in the americans pocket like it is portrated sometimes,” so what is your proof?
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Well done, you proved it!
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I NEVER SEE LIKE THIS DRAMA BEFORE
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It has been proved beyond doubt that American Drones attack with the blessings of the present Islamabad Government. The Supreme Commander sitting in Islamabad Bunker is personally and severally responsible for these attacks. Rehman Malik has been specially sent to USA to assure them that there is nothing to worry.
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“The account further quoted Khan as saying that he was concerned about the safety of the rally participants.”
“There’s no security risk. The main factor is if Imran Khan goes to Waziristan the real situation made by the United States and Pakistan will be seen. There are no terrorists there – it will be shown to be a lie.”
The great Khantradictions of PTI and its supporters.
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@sa:
why don’t you ask your leaders to do the same drama. I bet you anything they will never dare.
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It was fixed rally for tank instead south Waziristan. Now captain you have been played doubtful which was fixed by Govt to fool the peoples.
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IK wants to give the people of Waziristan education? How about stopping the Taliban from burning down schools?
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I think Tank is also in South Waziristan.
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Somehow biased ET put “fails” in the headline and giving impression of failure but in fact the rally was successful. Shame on you ET, shame
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3 months of preparations, millions were spent & just 1000 people…look pictures…failed stunt..
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For all Cynics:
Waziristan is not all occupied by TTP or militants. it is ruled by them just like you , I and the rest are being ruled by few so called peace-loving-democratic-dynastic-political parties. Imran Khan has talked about it numerous times in his interviews that the segregation of common man from the militants has not been carried out in that area. locals don’t carry weapon to traumatise or terrorise their people, its been their tradition for centuries. He has gone their to support and show solidarity to the locals, who if won’t killed by the drones, will definitely be subjected to the atrocities of their wicked rulers i.e. TTP. Calling a local man a militant just for being there doesn’t make him a terrorist. If so than all Pakistani’s are terrorist too and that’s how they are perceived in West. Not making an attempt to understand the underlying issues and coming over to social forums bashing and poking fun to some one, who is actually trying to make a difference to your futures, all cynics have proved time and again that they would rather say something silly and make themselves look like complete fools. As someone has suggested that Imran Khan is doing this for popularity and his motto in politics is to take any financial gain. let me enlighten you. IK doesn’t need any money nor does he need cheap popularity. He was the only transatlantic sportsman who garnered much love and respect from every media than one could ever achieve in his or her lifetime. He married a billionaire’s daughter, who inherited hundred’s of millions upon her father’s death. more than to keep one’s coming generations going with every luxury this world offers. He mingled with the elitist people in the world. People who define success and perseverance. He has two kids too. I challenge everyone on this forum. especially who live abroad and doubt Imran Khan’s intentions. if you really love your country and want to see a change: quit your jobs, give up all luxuries, your social circles, your family and your kids….come back to Pakistan and run your OWN political party. face criticism, get punched and spat on ur face, get dragged by the youth and be thrown in jail for standing up for your rights…..try that if you have guts….if you can, than you have my best wishes…if not than keep your mouth shut and at least try to figure out why Imran Khan is doing and for whom he is doing all this…. you will soon realize the truth… Recommend
Imran has really shattered the ill intentions of prejudiced critics.No belief,just go and see more than 2000 articles in international media on Drone March in just 24 hours.Its enough to blow the senses of traditional politicians of tested parties!
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He has accomplished one thing by marching towards Waziristan, the media in the US has brought to the attention of the American people that drones are killing innocent people too and it is fueling the insurgency in Afghanistan.Some how the rest of Pakistanis equate all the tribal people with terrorism and don’t consider them Pakistani citizens. By the way I don’t see any other leader from any other party taking the effort to go there and bring the plight of those people to the world’s attention. It is because this government and the military is in cahoots with the Americans to use drones in the Tribal Areas.
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@Aahjiz BayNawa: First case of whole nation suffering from Cardiomegaly. :)
Jokes apart, you will have to ask the moderators here for the answer to ‘giving credit’. I answered point by point. But am not going to type again.
Give credit where credit is due; this is not street theater…
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@mohturrum: Why wait for time, I can tell you right now. Drones will not stop.
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Today’s bold and succesful march of khan prove that he is approved for both establishment and Taliban as future prime minister
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@Khanzada: I have been saying it for long – Imran Khan is just a front man for the deep state and its strategic assets. But Pakistanis, true to form, can’t see that far.
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@Jat:
Large-hearted is in the proverbial sense not in the physical meaning as reflected in “Cardiomegaly.” Getting education never hurts.
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Whom IK trying to fool. Drone strikes never target politicians, IK is afraid of Taliban and TTP. Returning from march without even entering South Waziristan proved to be a show business to garner votes. He proved to be one more cowardice.
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the right to stage a march:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/urdu/pakistan/2009/03/090315longmarchlahore.shtml
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Jat: You are just jealous of the success of a Pakistani politician.
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‘The rally was stopped by the Pakistani army at Manzai check-post’
The military stopping the march only unfold its hollow claims that whole of SW had been secured and cleared of all militants. Its a pity that such a huge army on whom billions of dollars are spent at the cost of the economy of the country has failed to secure its own territory which is practically in the hands of the militants so far.
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Imran Khan turned around in time so he can watch the final between WI and SL.
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IK cant even enter SW (which is much safer) let alone NW!! So much for the “fearless” leader but the pti nirales will believe anything their cult leader says!
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you are fake imran khan there are 6 other big tribal agencies and 6 FR regions where no drones fly but innocent pushtoons get headed and tortured on daily basis since 12 years. why not raising voice der and protest in favour of them as well? u shud take this march now against those who have killed 40000 innocent civilians which were nt killed by drones bt by terrorist. y did u not say a single word in favour of them oh sorry i forgot u r traditional beardless mulla who does politics on pashtoons blood. shame on your this fake peace march. i along with 100 pashtoons have changed mind we will nt vote you until u come up with something reasonable
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@Ch. Allah Daad…..if no international media is highlighting this news then what to say about this…http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-19861020….this is news from the front page of bbc site…
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King Khan : Imran KhanRecommend
@Justin Truthful: Yes he indeed has a formidable reputation as a politician – 16 years in politics and the great “neta” manages to win a single seat in every general election. You know you semi literate kiddos cause him more harm than good.
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The caption of newa article should have been – ” PTI Peace March Fails. ”
To enter wazirastan is an un-necessay addition.
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And as expected:
I’ M RAN.
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being from this area and being a proud pathan i realize and so do the valourous and loving people of my area that giving your turban or swiftly presenting it to someone means that we have a mutual respect and appreciation for each other. what he did was in all innocence meant that if there is no love,respect and appreciation for the people of waziristan there is none for him! however pmln would never realize this as they never paid attention to the culture of any part of their country
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My friends you can continue to be vote for dynasties as you are impressed with the lavish life style of NS or Z. Infact it was supposed to be spend on us. I can vote for any other person except those involved in status quo. If a leader is strong and upright then there is not much room for malpractices. Re Mush era without politicians
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@Ch. Allah Daad:
since your only source of information seems to be Pakistani media and BBC Urdu. A little googling would have helped you to further your knowledge…..have a good one!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/oct/07/pakistanis-rally-against-us-drone-strikes
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/9591518/Imran-Khan-sets-off-on-peace-march-to-campaign-against-drones.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/9591540/Imran-Khan-prepares-to-lead-convoy-of-protest-into-Waziristan-hotbed-of-Taliban-support.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asiapacific/pakistani-politician-plans-drone-protest-in-off-limits-tribal-area/2012/10/04/d186a4d4-0e55-11e2-ba6c-07bd866eb71astory.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/pakistans-mr-popular/2011/09/02/gIQA8BQrwJ_gallery.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-19861020
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-19844270
http://news.bbc.co.uk/today/hi/today/newsid_9757000/9757510.stm
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2213409/Code-Pink-campaign-U-S-drone-attacks-Pakistan-Imran-Khan-leads-peace-march.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2213409/Code-Pink-campaign-U-S-drone-attacks-Pakistan-Imran-Khan-leads-peace-march.html
http://www.dnaindia.com/world/reportpak-army-blocks-imran-khan-s-rally-against-us-drones-in-tribal-belt1749966
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/imran-khans-peace-march-against-us-drones-heads-to-tribal-belt/articleshow/16710662.cms
http://www.itv.com/news/story/2012-10-06/khans-rally-against-us-drones/
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2012/10/2012106181644841459.html
http://news.yahoo.com/pak-taliban-disowns-leaflet-threatening-imran-khans-peace-062442505.html
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-10-05/news/342799361drone-strikes-imran-khan-pakistan-tehrik-e-insaf-party
http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2012/10/07/pakistan-drones-protest.html
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/asia-pacific/2012/10/2012106193549464332.html
http://dubaieye1038.com/page/Day2ofImranKhan%26%23039%3Bspeacerallyagainstdrone_strikes/59301?feed=2
https://twitter.com/Mr_Balli/status/254970753630478336/photo/1/large
http://www.voanews.com/content/khan-leads-drone-protest-in-pakistan/1521576.html
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Hey,
Why do you use such language “fails to enter” ? whereas could’ve been titled as “Couldnt go through” or purpose achieved?
Such a negative expression. Sad to see.
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@Ch. Allah Daad: That’s factually incorrect. BBC, Al Jazeera and ABC (Australia) to name a few have extensively covered this event.
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@Ch. Allah Daad:
since your source of information seems to be only Pakistani media & BBC URDU, here are some other sources which could’ve further your knowledge..only need some googling ….have a good one
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/oct/07/pakistanis-rally-against-us-drone-strikes
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/9591518/Imran-Khan-sets-off-on-peace-march-to-campaign-against-drones.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/9591540/Imran-Khan-prepares-to-lead-convoy-of-protest-into-Waziristan-hotbed-of-Taliban-support.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asiapacific/pakistani-politician-plans-drone-protest-in-off-limits-tribal-area/2012/10/04/d186a4d4-0e55-11e2-ba6c-07bd866eb71astory.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/pakistans-mr-popular/2011/09/02/gIQA8BQrwJ_gallery.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-19861020
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-19844270
http://news.bbc.co.uk/today/hi/today/newsid_9757000/9757510.stm
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2213409/Code-Pink-campaign-U-S-drone-attacks-Pakistan-Imran-Khan-leads-peace-march.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2213409/Code-Pink-campaign-U-S-drone-attacks-Pakistan-Imran-Khan-leads-peace-march.html
http://www.dnaindia.com/world/reportpak-army-blocks-imran-khan-s-rally-against-us-drones-in-tribal-belt1749966
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/imran-khans-peace-march-against-us-drones-heads-to-tribal-belt/articleshow/16710662.cms
http://www.itv.com/news/story/2012-10-06/khans-rally-against-us-drones/
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2012/10/2012106181644841459.html
http://news.yahoo.com/pak-taliban-disowns-leaflet-threatening-imran-khans-peace-062442505.html
http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-10-05/news/342799361drone-strikes-imran-khan-pakistan-tehrik-e-insaf-party
http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2012/10/07/pakistan-drones-protest.html
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/asia-pacific/2012/10/2012106193549464332.html
http://dubaieye1038.com/page/Day2ofImranKhan%26%23039%3Bspeacerallyagainstdrone_strikes/59301?feed=2
https://twitter.com/Mr_Balli/status/254970753630478336/photo/1/large
http://www.voanews.com/content/khan-leads-drone-protest-in-pakistan/1521576.html
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At least he tried……..we love you Imran Khan.
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What A Brave Leader We have Love You IkRecommend
The headline is misleading, the objectives of the march have been achieved alhamdulillah! People world wide are talking about drone attacks. This problem has got media attention which builds pressure on pak and US govt. to stop them!
Long live IK!
Long live Pak!
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I didn’t know, in my own country going from point A to point B will be considered a great act of bravery. If this is the criteria, then I am the bravest man in Pakistan, because I travel everywhere without media and security.
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There was a “blessing in disguise” which we all have missed. The parents of Imran’s young supporters proved, that they have complete control on their kids physical movements. They may not know what their kids are doing on computers, but very wisely they did not let them go out and participate in this useless adventure. I sincerely hope they will repeat this wisdom on election day.
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At least someone in Pakistan attempted to go to Waziristan. All the other leader neither gave the gut nor get any glory for uncovering the problems related to drone attack.
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Imran you’re courageous, determined, creative with never give up attitude; yet pakistani political media ‘stunt man’ are burnt inside out. All those still think you’re just a cricketer and comment likewise; People will understand PTI ; You’ve Goals people are realizing them ; Hope you guys can put on the action shoes and execute the plans. God Bless All !
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@pakistani: were these pakistanis killed before pakistan became a US partner and started getting these tribal people killed? No, these people were our strengh. We lost them by allying with US in a war which US imposed on us. The 1st suicide attack in pakistan was recorded in 2001, not earlier. And that was for owning a foreign war. If we could use these people in our advantage, they would make pakistan inconkuerable by the sheer braveness as they are doing in Afghanistan.
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Nothing but defence of these monsters called taliban
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The goal was to raise the Drone issue and aware the world which is been achieved, since morning its been covered by local and internal media. see “Hor chuppoo” post above. If allowed by army he could have gone further.
IK is a brave man with guts, Pakistan can do much better with a leader like him not like the cowards we have now. Long live IK.
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MASHA ALLAH PTI AND IMRAN KHAN TEAM DONE VERY WELL.
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I seriously don’t get why everyone is making this whole story in to a popularity contest of our politicans. Let’s not focus on leaders, but rather lets focus on the issues. And the issue right now is not whether IK is a good leader or not. We all know he has a drive but not the experience. Putting that aside, the issue is getting a glimpse of Waziristan. Pakistan, stop squabbling like two beggars asked to split a ten rupee note and let us all come together on this.
I don’t think one moderate from any political affiliation would not feel for this cause and understand the importance of this March!
Please keep Marching On!
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**ARIF FAROOQ
strong textIMRAN KHAN YOU PROVED IT YOU ARE BIG LEADER IN PALISTAN
**
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@Jat:
do it urself .. try goin to quetta and tank
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My Leader Nation is so proud of you… IMRAN KHAN
Vote for PTI – Vote for New Pakistan
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We Are With YOu…Imran Khan We Love u Also……
Vote For PTI
VOte For New Pakistan
Vote FOr New Hope
Vote For New Value
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I am wondering why our media is criticising Imaran Khan and PTI peace march instead of taking this as a opportunity by highlight the drones issue. While watching TV the picture rolls in my mind like what was going on in media gate video and how paid anchors and owners were trying to satisfy their masters.
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If anyone needs proof how dishonest/biased ET is check the headline:
PTI peace march fails to enter Waziristan
&
then compare it to the line below it:
Rally barred from entering Waziristan, Imran Khan addresses rally in Tank.
@ET, you shot yourself in the foot with your biased reporting this time.
I dare you to print it. Lets see if you have any semblance of objectivity.
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@Rahim: “IK is a brave man with guts”
Can you please tell us all what great feats of bravery were displayed by Imran during this so-called motorized march. He was supposed to go to North Waziristan, then backed down and said will go to South Waziristan and when finally the time came turned his back still 60 km away from S. Waziristan border. So that was bravery ? Bravo !
And when he addressed the 5000 odd supporters, instead of criticizing America, NATO and drone strikes, he used the opportunity to attack his fellow opposition leaders. I see no bravery in that either.
He said he was going to talk to Taliban as they were his brothers, he didn’t get anywhere close to them. He said he wanted to see and show the world, the damage caused by drones, he didn’t get within 200 km of those areas were the drones are being used.
This was all brazen, opportunistic political drama and point scoring.
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@Ch. Allah Daad : “I didn’t know, in my own country going from point A to point B will be considered a great act of bravery”
Ok can you or your party can go from A to point B on same route. Everyone will be really happy if you prove IK wrong by just going A to B.
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The headline is misleading. It really downplays the whole exercise that is considered a successful show even by western media.
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Imran Khan Prime Minister of Pakistan
Asif Ali Zardari, President fo Pakistan.
LOL LOL!!!!!Recommend
excellent job, well done Imran Khan, we are proud of you
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Khan we are happy to have everyone home safe. With prayers for all those who participated. It was indeed a noble cause.
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ET is extremely biased.
Instead of saying “fails” you could use “blocked by army”
And then using the wrong number of participants. Just pathetic ET
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This march has caused immense damage to the opponents of Imran!
Tv talk shows the desperatness and anger on the faces of anchors and poltical personalities.More than 2000 articles in international media has really made local media to be jealous. Recommend
@sa:
I never see like this english before.
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Can some readers please share with me under which provision of Law was the rally refused to procced into Waziristan?
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
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Imran Khan will definitely be a good PM for Pakistan. Ultimately, a Pashtoon PM is needed to heal the sufferings of marginalized Pashtoon people of Pakistan.
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drones are there for the last 10 years, where was IK in these days. what if elections are there and picking of hot issue are the main reasons. keep it up IK, u know how to make drama and let it be done acccordingly.
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@Ch. Allah Daad:
http://world.time.com/2012/10/07/pakistan-blocks-anti-u-s-protest-in-tribal-region/?lid=edit
Here an international media outlet with the news. Opened the washington post huge 2 page spread over this. But since you are just an ignorant old man nothing good will come of it. Now whats your second excuse.
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Revolutionaries are afraid of the dark of night :D
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@Ch. Allah Daad: Who has habit leaving people behind? I think you are talking about person ran to Jeddah after fixing a deal with a dictator. you may not have a good memory but people of Pakistan have.Recommend
Come on 1000,,,,,,,,r u kidding me,,,,,,,there were 700+ vehicles only,,,,so thora sa bhara do.
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The attendance was about 500 people that had reduced to 200 when they reached Taank.
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Good Job PTIRecommend
Maybe it’s just me but I read he and the protestors didn’t enter South Waziristan. What was the point again? Was the point to march all the way to the outskirts by the nearest town to South Waziristan and turn around? If that’s the case then, well done Imran Khan sir. They called it a peace council, I guess the closer they got, the less peace they realized was possible. It seems as though Imran Khans theory of peaceful intervention was really not something he was willing to bet his life was possible.
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I’m reading these comments now. What is it that he did? He turned around. Was he going there to prove that the place was filled with terrorists that have made the area so dangerous that a people that bring peace and blessings and condemnation of drone strikes against them are not welcome? If that was his intention then well done Imran Khan. Only in Pakistan can you be rewarded for proving yourself wrong. They could at least entered the outskirts of South Waziristan and sent someone to run and quickly lean a toe over the South Waziristan boundary. Maybe someone could of quickly used his finger to write in the dirt, “Imran Khan was here.”
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@Ch. Allah Daad:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/video/2012/oct/07/imran-khan-anti-drone-march-waziristan-video
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@Jat:
Regarding your comment: “ Yes he indeed has a formidable reputation as a politician – 16 years in politics and the great “neta” manages to win a single seat in every general election. You know you semi literate kiddos cause him more harm than good.” You have taken my comment out of context, which was his success relating to his peace march only. So who is semi-literate kiddo?
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@talha khan: “drones are there for the last 10 years, where was IK in these days”
Was waiting for orders from Lt Gen Pasha. How can he take any step on his own ? The same Imran Khan who supported the dictator Musharaf, who was the originator of drone attacks. The same Imran Khan who has collected all the ex foreign ministers who were involved in WOT and other negotiations.
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Why can’t some commentators get the simple truth that in the given environment when the path was littered with deathly hazards and when no other “leader” ever thought of bringing the issue to mass public, domestic and international attention, it was quite an achievement even to go as far as IK did and to get it publicized which he did. I am no fan of Imran Khan or PTI but I was constrained to appreciate his endeavor.Recommend
@Justin Truthful: “You have taken my comment out of context, which was his success relating to his peace march only.”
Success ? Hmmm let me search for it in this news item. Here it is, right in the headline, let me copy it for you
“PTI peace march fails to enter Waziristan”
So according to you success is to contest general elections for 16 years and win one seat each time
or
success is to “fail to enter South Waziristan after boasting about marching to North Waziristan”.
Need I say more ?
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@Justin Truthful: “I am no fan of Imran Khan or PTI but I was constrained to appreciate his endeavor.”
I’ll agree with you on one thing though, that you are “constrained”.
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@Abdul Rahim:
please get your facts right please note army & government didnt allowed imran to enter waziristan
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The issue is not the FATA people or Pakistanis living in those areas. The real problem is the foreign terrorists living in safe havens in FATA and Pakistan with deep rooted support among all rightwing parties and forces. While these leaders including IK and Sharif do not stop demanding the SC to open every old and new case of political importance they never demanded the main question as to how and why the worst terrorists in human history lived for better part of the decade in an army base? The unsigned memo was a threat to national security and treason, dual nationality is a threat but the presence of OBL and his harem was never a threat. There are no demands let alone marches to bring out the truth about the very basis of terrorism and its supporters in Pakistan. Once the terrorists and their supporters are identified and put away the people of FATA would take care of their own everyday problems like before. However, there is unanimity among all rightwing forces to sweep the main issue and basis of terrorism under the rug. When would a real leader rise and demand the publication of all the facts regarding the presence of OBL in an army base? I guess never a Pakistani rightwing leader.
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@Sumaira: Well said ! You got most of it right. Now if only Pakistan had a real leader, someone with vision…
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@Jat:
Success in my comment was to say that he was able to get domestic and international focus regarding the need to bring peace to Waziristan and other affected areas. You have again tried to mislead by taking my comment out of context.
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ET: Please post this comment
Beware of some Indian commentators who may or may not have official sponsorship for influencing public opinion about Pakistan politics. Needless to say that Imran Khan whether good or bad would least likely submit to Indian preferences or dictates, even if he comes to power. Therefore, it comes to reason that attempts would be made through media comments to minimize the importance of Khan’s achievements and for minimizing his growing popularity. Though not a supporter of IK, one has to objectively give him appreciation wherever due. He was barred from entering Waziristan but he achieved the aim of publicizing the issue of bringing peace there and for showing the need to halt the death of innocent civilians who die along with targeted others. Had he attempted to proceed further the peaceful rally might not have remained so and it would have hurt the cause of the rally.
The success of the objectives can be seen in the comments of Clive Stafford Smith, the British head of the legal lobby group Reprieve, who said that “whether or not the group reached its intended destination was irrelevant.” “It’s already a wonderful success,” he told reporters. “It doesn’t matter what happens from here on. We’ve generated a huge amount of publicity not just in Pakistan but across the world.”
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It is unlikely if any Indian would like a Pakistani leader that leads from the front.
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@Justin Truthful: My dear friend, for a real visionary Pakistani leader it won’t matter if Indians like him/her or not. Your problems and solutions, both lie inside of Pakistan. Get your house in order, and then we can talk.
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@Jat:
why dont u got to north waziristan? Its so easy to talk and criticise!
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@Akhtar:
lol…agree
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@Sajidullah Mahmood: And you Sir are a spokesman of ISPR, deep state or Zahangir ? Your officious demeanor, authoritative and threatening tone will not impress anyone, least of all the Indian commentators.
And you Sir, give us too much credit. You think the Indian commentators have the power to influence Pakistan politics ? Is Pakistani democracy this weak ? I don’t think so.
And Sir, don’t try to hide behind “Though not a supporter of IK”, your pathetic attempt of disguising yourself is as successful as Imran’s “peace drive”.
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@Bhatti: You must be out of your mind ! Why on earth would I ever want to go to North Waziristan ? Why would I even want to visit Pakistan ?
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@Justin Truthful: “You have again tried to mislead by taking my comment out of context.”
If you really think so, I apologize.
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imran khan is not afraid of going to wazirstan. Fine
but imran khan is afraid of going to wazirstan in dark. by this logic, waziristan waziristan cancel, imran khan is afraid of dark
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Some right-wing media mongers in Pakistan are trying to convince the general public that, despite ‘safety concerns’, Imran Khan was proceeding with the long march into Waziristan to protest against US drone attacks. They cite safety concerns but do not tell from whom — from the Pakistan Army, the US drones or the Taliban themselves? It is obvious that neither the Pakistan Army nor US drones were going to attack the procession; the only hostile party left is the Taliban. In effect, Imran Khan was protesting against those who have established their announced/perceived rule in the tribal areas, who are involved in cross-border attacks and who are running suicide bombing production factories that churn out zombies to attack mosques, markets, schools and shrines in Pakistan. Imran Khan’s protest is nothing but a political gimmick. It is to encash the strategy religious parties and their right-wing media mongers have worked out to fool the public into thinking that the Taliban are waging a holy war against the ‘infidels’. It is wrong to presume that the Taliban are a product of the drones. In fact, it is the other way around. If the Taliban cease their activities in Pakistan and Afghanistan and kick out all the foreign militants from Pakistani soil, drone attacks will automatically stop as they will not be required. If 2,000 people have been killed in drone attacks (including several hundred top militants) in the last 10 years, then what about the 40,000 civilians and military personnel bombed by the Taliban? Is there any comparison between the two? If Imran Khan is so interested in long marches, then he should do it for some noble cause such as reviving the polio eradication campaign in the tribal areas, in the Pashtun localities of Karachi and Pashtun majority districts of Balochistan.Recommend
We strongly condemned the attack on the award-winning student from Sawat Malala Yousufzai by armed terrorists. We are deep sorrow on the injuring of Malala and one another girl student in the attack. That firing upon innocent students and injuring them was blatant terrorism, and the perpetrators behind this vile act should be swiftly brought to justice.
And i really shame on PTI they supporter of Taliban…
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