We will return to Islamabad to 'take back our rights': K-P CM Gandapur

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has said he has plans to return to Islamabad to “claim our rights,” vowing "peaceful protests" while criticising federal resistance to such demonstrations.

Speaking to media in Peshawar, CM Gandapur stated he has a “robust strategy” for the march but withheld details.

“We are accustomed to their oppressive measures,” CM Gandapur said, referring to previous federal actions to block protests, including the use of rubber bullets and trenches to deter demonstrators.

He emphasised that Pakistan’s constitution grants the right to protest, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa will exercise this right responsibly.

“Our preparations for protest rallies and assemblies are always ready,” CM Gandapur added. “Though I cannot share the exact strategy, it will be effective. Despite our commitment to peace, we face barriers each time.”

He criticised the federal government’s frequent use of force against demonstrators and indicated that Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s resolve to assert its rights would not be undermined.

CM Gandapur avoided commenting on any ongoing court proceedings related to the planned protests.

Imran gives 'final showdown' call for Nov 24

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan announced his much-anticipated "final call" for a protest in Islamabad on November 24, once again setting government radars buzzing amid a fierce crackdown on the party's recent similar moves towards the federal capital.

Declaring it a rallying cry against a "stolen mandate," "unjust arrests," and the recent passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, the incarcerated leader's announcement has set the stage for a potential confrontation.

Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail, Aleema Khan, Imran's sister, urged assembly members, voters, party workers, and leaders to participate.

She conveyed Imran's message as it was "the last chance to choose" between military rule and true freedom.

She recalled the controversial February 8 elections, saying that despite attempts to obstruct their voting rights, people exercised their constitutional rights, taking power from an elite culture and gaining strength.

However, she lamented that by February 9, the entire mandate was allegedly "stolen" with representatives seated in the National Assembly eventually bringing in the 26th Amendment.

"You used your right [to vote] on February 8. but the next day, the foundation you had laid for democracy was stolen."

Quoting the PTI founder, Aleema said that the rule of law and the independence of the Supreme Court have been undermined. "All of your rights have been taken away; the Supreme Court has been occupied, and the current conditions are even worse than previous martial laws."

Aleema explained that Imran's call is directed at four key groups—farmers, lawyers, civil society, and students—urging them to stand up for their rights and protest for change.

Meanwhile, K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur confirmed his province's readiness for the announced Islamabad march, declaring that the "final date has arrived".

He said the provincial government was ready to fight the "final round" and that "there will be no turning back" this time.

Speaking to the media in Peshawar, Gandapur stated that while preparations had been in place, the time has come to strengthen efforts, assuring that they would set out with even greater resolve.

Gandapur asserted that the marchers will not return until their demands, including the release of Imran Khan, are met. "The announcement has been made, and now it's time to head out."