Islamabad is on high alert as Interior Minister Senator Mohsin Naqvi has claimed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters are armed and planning an attack on the capital.
Speaking to the media at D-Chowk, Naqvi said that, while the right to protest is fundamental, PTI workers are 'carrying weapons' and aiming to cause unrest.
“We will not allow anyone to damage property,” Naqvi said. “Yesterday, we requested them not to hold rallies or protests at this time. I apologise to the residents of Islamabad for any inconvenience caused.”
Naqvi stated that the law enforcement agencies have not armed their personnel, further claiming that videos and images had shown PTI supporters with weapons.
He added that the Chief Minister of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Ali Amin Gandapur should "reconsider his actions, stating that while protests are a right, this is not the appropriate method."
The Interior Minister stressed the importance of ensuring the security of foreign dignitaries currently in Islamabad, stating, “I am absolutely clear that they are planning an attack on Islamabad. We have made necessary arrangements for the safety of our foreign guests.”
PTI has called for a protest at D-Chowk in Islamabad today, with K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur stating he will reach the protest, even if he has to go alone.
PTI Protest
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf is marching to the federal capital to put on a power show, while the party's regional chapters attempt to join the main rally from across the country.
PTI Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa chapter has completed preparations for the protest at D-Chowk in Islamabad.
The convoys from the province will be led by K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Protesters departed from Peshawar Interchange at 10 am, and from Swabi at 11am. Assembly members have been instructed to bring 500 supporters each with them.
Participants have been advised to come fully prepared, with machinery to remove obstacles in the path of the convoy.
Party leaders have instructed participants to bring slingshots, masks, salt, water, food supplies, mobile chargers, and other essential items to protect against teargas.
Equipment for removing containers, as well as ambulances, are also be part of the convoy. All party leaders have been strictly instructed to ensure their participation in the protest and to bring supporters along.
It was acknowledged by party leaders that the planning for the previous protest was inadequate. However, this time, instead of turning back midway, every effort will be made to reach Islamabad. A specialised and trained team will move ahead of the convoy, while the machinery for clearing obstacles will lead, with the main procession following behind.
Punjab stands prepared
To manage law and order and prepare for the rally at D-Chowk in Islamabad, Section 144 has been imposed for three days in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha, banning political rallies, sit-ins, and gatherings. The Metro Bus service in the Rawalpindi section will remain suspended during this time.
The Punjab government has also imposed Section 144 in Lahore for six days, besides various other districts. The order, which restricts all public gatherings, demonstrations, and protests, aims to maintain law and order, according to an official notification from the Punjab Home Department.
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