PTI dissatisfied with Islamabad rally venue, to challenge decision in fresh plea
People protesting in Lower Dir after the ECP's verdict against Imran Khan. PHOTO: TWITTER/@PTIofficial
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) received the green light on Friday from Islamabad's administration to hold a rally in the Rawat area of GT Road.
Last week, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon turned down the party’s request to hold a rally in view of the "law and order situation" stating that the party had already violated NOCs (no objection certificates) issued on earlier occasions.
The decision was conveyed to the Islamabad High Court (IHC) by a capital administration representative as it heard a contempt case regarding the party being denied permission to hold a rally.
Legal counsel for PTI Shoaib Shaheen voiced the party's decision to organise the rally at Fatima Jinnah Park (F-9 Park). In response, the court remarked that PTI can initiate a new petition to challenge the administration’s decision regarding the venue.
Read IHC seeks swift decision on PTI’s rally plea
The district administration granted permission to hold the rally under 39 conditions, including adherence to the scheduled end time and prohibition of anti-state slogans or speeches. Security will be the party's responsibility, and any form of rioting or damage to public property will not be tolerated.
Read more SHC rules in favour of PTI rally
Speaking informally to the media outside the court, Shoaib expressed PTI's intention to challenge the DC's decision to permit the rally in Rawat. He stated the party's preference for holding the rally in F-9 Park while condemning the DC’s office for presenting a "dishonest and biased" letter.
“Rallies in Islamabad have historically occurred at three locations: F-9 Park, Parade Ground, and Peshawar Morr. There has never been a rally in Rawat,” stated Shoaib.
Shoaib pointed out the blatant 'dishonesty and corruption' prevalent within the administration, stating that "everyone knows who is behind it".
Furthermore, he added that upon the issuance of a new order concerning the contempt of court request, the court has permitted us to challenge it through a fresh petition.