Imran's dream team wows Karachi
“When I saw Tsunami in Lahore, I thought to myself it will be very difficult to top this. But today, I congratulate the people of Karachi, because they beat the [October 30] rally,” Imran said. He chanted the names of all of Pakistan’s major ethnicities as people from those groups responded. Mentioning religious minorities, he wished a merry Christmas to the Christians of Pakistan.
The PTI Chairman said a special welcome to a man he introduced as Zulfiqar Ali who had come all the way from Dera Ghazi Khan to attend the rally. “He financed his trip by selling his mobile phone!”
“I welcome Javed Hashmi to PTI. The one thing I truly admire about him is his bravery. I welcome Shah Mahmood Qureshi again,” he said. He then made the announcement that former foreign minister Sardar Asif Ali has said that he will be joining the PTI.
“The Quaid wanted Pakistan to be an Islamic welfare state, and I will make it into one,” Khan said. He said that it was at the age of 18 when he first went to Britain and understood what a welfare state is.
“I was surprised to see that every person, rich or poor, was given a free education that would enable him or her to even become the prime minister of Britain,” he said. “This is my dream: A Pakistan where every human being is valued.”
“The first thing we want to create is a just legal system in the country. We want courts that do not discriminate. We will take justice to the grassroots, to the rural areas and include everyone in the system,” Imran said. “We will provide everyone justice for free.”
“This is my promise to you: I will bring forth for you a team the likes of which this country has never seen,” Imran said. “What will this team do? Under Jahangir Tarin, this team will present policy papers on every issue twice a month. We will present policies on agriculture, transport, local government, and foreign affairs. We will present to you how Pakistan will become an independent nation.”
And most importantly, PTI will present a tax plan that will ensure that this country never has to beg for money from anybody, he said. “We will create a police force independent of political influence, based purely on merit. When I am in government, one day they will even stop Imran Khan’s own car for over speeding.”
Announcing his support for Balochistan, he said that the next stop of his ‘tsunami’ will be Quetta on March 23, 2012. “My Balochi brothers, I ask you for forgiveness on behalf of Pakistanis. We have been unjust to you. We did to you what we did to East Pakistanis. We have kept you as a colony.”
When PTI is in power, we will use the model of West and East Germany, he said. “West Germany gave East Germany special status and diverted all development to thast area. We will develop Balochistan. We will come to you, embrace you, ask for your forgiveness, and address all your grievances,” he said.
The PTI Chairman did not raise criticism against the MQM in his speech.
End of live updates
8:48pm
PTI Chief Imran Khan addresses the rally.
“When I saw Tsunami in Lahore, I thought to myself it will be very difficult to top this. But today, I congratulate the people of Karachi, because they beat the [October 30] rally,” Imran says. He chanted the names of all of Pakistan’s major ethnicities as people from those groups responded. Mentioning religious minorities, he wished a merry Christmas to the Christians of Pakistan.
He said a special welcome to a man he introduced as Zulfiqar Ali who had come all the way from Dera Ghazi Khan to attend the rally. “He financed his trip by selling his mobile phone!”
“I welcome Javed Hashmi to PTI. The one thing I truly admire about him is his bravery. I welcome Shah Mahmood Qureshi again,” he said.
He then made the announcement that former foreign minister Sardar Asif Ali has said that he will be joining the PTI.
08:00pm
Qureshi says that when he was the foreign minister of Pakistan, he expressed opinions against the US-India civil nuclear deal. However, he says President Zardari sent out a message that Pakistan will not go against any such nuclear deal.
Qureshi says that a nuclear deal between US and India severely undermines Pakistan.
If Pakistan ever signs "no first strike" agreement with India, its nuclear assets will be wasted and worthless, Qureshi says.
He "accuses" President Zardari of ruining the deterrent value of Pakistan’s nuclear program by saying 'no first strike' on India.
The PTI vice chairman assures the people that Pakistan’s nuclear assets are physically safe but are threatened by such “evil” decisions and such people.
Clarifying PTI’s stand on India, Qureshi says that his party wants friendship with everyone, with the US and India. But it would not tolerate slave-master relations.
“We want friendship and not slavery,” says Qureshi.
“If you want to see this country as an independent country, then vote for a leadership that has the guts to take bold stand on all such decisions,” Qureshi says.
7:44pm
Shah Mahmood Qureshi addresses the jalsa.
“Today, PIA, Wapda and all other institutions of the country are failing continuously but all these things can improve if the people of Pakistan decide to vote for a leadership that can bring about that change,” Qureshi says.
He said that all these failures are a result of incompetence and corruption. There are five things that everyone has agreed upon: “Firstly, democracy. Everyone wants democracy and no one is conspiring against the government. Prime Minister Gilani, it is your corruption that is a conspiracy against your own government. Secondly, justice. If you want justice in the country, vote for the PTI. The party will ensure that justice prevails. Thirdly, an independent judiciary. The present set-up has buried the concept of necessity. Fourth, free media which will promote accountability and democratic values. And lastly, Pakistan’s nuclear programme. Ensuring its security is something everyone agrees on. Would you let anyone trade our nuclear capability?” Qureshi said.
He said that as a former foreign minister of Pakistan, he knows that this programme protects Pakistan from outside threat. “Pakistan’s nuclear programme is under a five-layered security system and is of international standards. But then you wonder what the threat is about? There is no physical threat but there is a threat from certain people.”
People scream Zardari’s name. “Everyone said my comments [about Zardari] were irresponsible but I still stand by my comments,” Qureshi says.
7:26pm
"Go Zardari Go" trends worldwide on Twitter.
Chants of “Go Zardari Go” as Shah Mahmood Qureshi takes the stage.
“Now that Karachi has woken up, it is as if Pakistan has awaken from its slumber. I congratulate the people of Karachi for attending this historic gathering. Our mission was to heal the bruises of Karachi and unite Karachiites and today’s rally has done that,” he said.
Quaid, you provided us with a country that we have failed to protect, but today we have gathered to protect this country, Qureshi said. “Everyone can see that things are changing. I can see people smiling. I can see their eyes shining.”
“Pakistan is under threat because of our own weaknesses. No one from outside will come to help us, we have to mend things ourselves,” he said.
7:19pm
Javed Hashmi addresses the rally, amid shouts of "Ek Bahadur Aadmi, Hashmi, Hashmi".
“We have gathered here for peace. This gathering, made up of the young generation of Pakistan, is the harbinger of a revolution,” the former PML-N stalwart said. “Today is the birthday of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. When he made this country, he wanted to ensure justice for Muslims of the subcontinent. Justice was his slogan and movement for justice is Imran’s slogan. This is why we have come forward to provide justice. It is the youth of this country who will achieve that.”
Talking about his former party, Hashmi said that PML-N workers also want Pakistan to prosper and progress. “I love those workers and my former party but I love the people of Pakistan more than that and that is why I have come here.”
Hashmi, who joined the PTI earlier this week, said that when he was considering joining the PTI, he was humbled by Imran Khan’s invitation. “For the first time, a leader said to me that I have never gone to ask anyone to join the party but I have come to you and not for myself but for Pakistan. How could I say no to that?”
For years, I was alone in demanding that leaders declare their assets. Now this is Imran’s voice and I would like to him that I will not back off [from my support of him], he said.
Addressing the people, he said, “Now, I hand you my 40 years of hard work. No one can raise questions over financial, social and political matters throughout my career or doubt my dedication to this country.”
7:05pm
Light grid on the right side of the stage (if your back is towards it) just fell forward. A group of people is standing there.
Twitter update:
Anthony Permal
If they can mention Afia Siddiqui, I DARE Imran Khan & Hashmi to mention Asia Bibi. #PTIJalsa #PTI #Pakistan
Rabia Mehmood
This tall guy in black shalwarkamiz & camel col jacket,rt of Hashmi seat was w/ Moonisilahi the day he ws released in #NICL scam.#ptijalsa
6:28pm
"Dil Dil Pakistan" also trending worldwide on Twitter.
PTI leader Hamid Khan addresses the rally.
ANP leader Bushra Gohar tweets about the PTI Jalsa.
Bushra Gohar
Has our electronic media formally joined PTI or have they received instructions? Seem overly enthusiastic Wonder why?
6:22pm
Fauzia Kasuri, the women’s wing president of PTI, addresses the rally. Vital Signs’ classic “Dil Dil Pakistan” plays. PTI leader Arif Alvi also addresses the rally. Crowd persistently shouts “Go Zardari Go”.
6:08pm
Abrar and Haq also trending worldwide on Twitter. Earlier, the rally was addressed by PTI leaders Naeemul Haq and Asfand Qaiser. "Main Toh Dekhoonga" by Strings starts playing, as Haq ends speech with Pakistan Zindabad and Imran Khan Zindabad slogans.
5:50pm
Abrarul Haq makes passionate speech and recites poetry. Says PTI will win a two-thirds majority in the next general election. The government that PTI will form will be that of the common man, of the youth, not that of the VIPs, he says. The situation has changed after October 30. Under Imran Khan's leadership, a revolution is just waiting to happen, he says.
5:40pm
Azam Swati, Javed Hashmi and Imran Khan trending worldwide on Twitter.
5:32pm
Javed Hashmi arrives at the podium. Imran Khan embraces Hashmi amidst slogans of “Ek Bahadur Aadmi, Javed Hashmi, Javed Hashmi”. Earlier, Azam Khan Swati addressed the rally. Explained his reasons for wanting Zardari on the Exit Control List and the Memogate scandal. Khursheed Mehmud Kasuri also makes brief speech.
5:12pm
Salman Ahmed plays the Pakistan National Anthem. Sings "Meri Awaz Suno" and "Jazba Junoon". Earlier, musician Abrarul Haq recited a naat, which was then followed by speeches by PTI leaders Samson Sharaf, Aslam Rajput and Dr Hasan Raza.
4:57pm
Express News reports that Javed Hashmi is also in attendance. Junoon's Salman Ahmed is also on stage. A large group of people has gathered outside as entrances are too narrow.
Attendees carry posters of the Aafia Movement with pictures of Pakistani neuroscientist Dr Aafia Siddiqui and Imran Khan on them.
4:40 pm
Imran Khan has arrived at the podium amid tight security. Takes a seat next to Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Express News is reporting at least a hundred thousand people are in attendance.
PTI workers release doves in PTI colours. Jehangir Tareen and Khurshid Kasuri have also arrived.
4:15 pm
Express News reports that Imran Khan has departed from his friend’s residence in Karsaz and will arrive at the venue shortly. Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other senior PTI leaders are accompanying him.
PTI's Arshad Qureshi said that the jalsa's success had shown that the "politics of language" has ended in Karachi.
4:00 pm
In his speech, PTI's Waleed Iqbal said that "tsunami can create electricity, extract reserves, can start up shut down railway engines and make grounded PIA planes fly."
Here's what's new on Twitter:
Zak__
A sea of crowd here,even by evening Quid e Azam would announce joining PTI, #Jalsa
aliktareen
En Route to the Jalsa. The roads of Khi are flooded with coasters full of young people adorned in PTI flags #PTIJalsa
Faiza_PK
Dear #PTI, please enjoy your jalsa, have fun, bring Tsunami or whatever it is that you're bringing... BUT plz don't use foul language! Thx
KHAN2705
Well so my one eye is on the Star World India's Christmas episodes run and other one on PTI Jalsa :)
3:30 pm
Musician Abrarul Haq recited a naat, which was then followed by speeches by PTI leaders Samson Sharaf, Aslam Rajput and Dr Hasan Raza, reports Saba Imtiaz. Former JUI (F) leader Azam Swati is at the event as are members of PTI's provincial leadership and Central Executive Committee.
3:15 pm
Journalists estimate that the crowd is in thousands. Saba Imtiaz reports that a huge cheer went up in the crowd when it was announced that there were traffic jams on Shahrah-e-Faisal and Shahrah-e-Quaideen because of the incoming flow of PTI supporters to the event. Musicians Abrarul Haq and Salman Ahmed are being touted as on the bill for performances at the event.
3:00 pm
Express News reports that people are approaching the venue in large numbers. People are queing up outside the entrance, waiting to clear security checks put in place by PTI volunteers.
Musician Abrarul Haq has reportedly reached the jalsa venue. Haq hasn’t been the only musician who has been associated with PTI. On August 11, the Islamabad-based band Alag came out with a patriotic number called “Jaago Pakistan”, which was dedicated to PTI. Amongst other musicians, the band Soch, Alterego and pop singer Shahzaman Alam have also expressed their support. A plethora of Imran Khan’s own friends such as Ali Azmat, Strings and others who had worked with him during charity tours to raise funds for Shaukat Khanum Cancer Memorial Hospital have been consistent supporters of his public rallies.
Here's the Twitter buzz:
marvi_memon
Pti jalsa shld b v huge today....jalsa attendees wil b expecting a lot from pti leadership on stage.faces on stage wil b ur answer.
samishah
Imran Khan promises jalsa will turn into worlds largest key party. Bring your hats and spouses.
AamnaTaseer
My friends have hired a truck and are attending the PTI jalsa today. Stay safe. So many jokes going round regarding CHAIRS.
shyyawn
:O people seemed excited about the PTI jalsa for weeks and they are going. And they are those who never were interested in politics before.
SikanderFayyaz
Over hundred thousand already at #PTIjalsa. This is big, no this will be huge, bigger than any jalsa anyone has held before. Power of Hope!
2:45 pm
Saba Imtiaz reports that an announcement has been made on the stage to allow more people into the ground, and a sea of people carrying PTI flags then entered the venue.
President of the Insaf Students Federation (ISF) in Karachi, Arsalan Ghumman tells The Express Tribune via SMS:
"Protect the jalsa venue... ISF tsunami heading to it."
2:30 pm
Saba Imtiaz reports that PTI supporters at the jalsa say they are there because "Imran Khan can bring change in the country".
Allahdino, who travelled from Larkana with his cousin, told The Express Tribune, that "if the leadership is good, the other politicians will work under him (Khan) and improve". He said he would expect Khan to improve the quality of education in Sindh.
Khawar and Wazir, in their early 20s, are originally from Gilgit and study in Karachi. Their priorities for Khan are "improving the law and order situation in Karachi and giving Gilgit Baltistan the status of a province"
The boys also took pictures of each other posing with PTI flags to upload on Facebook, they said.
Khushal Ahmed Butt, who has lived in Karachi for 15 years, came to the event with his four young children. "We've come on their demand. We support Khan and believe he can improve the conditions of the country."
Here's the Twitter update:
TheRealHaroon
I want to wish PTI a safe and successful rally today in Karachi on the birthday of the father of our nation!!
murtazasolangi
I sincerely wish PTI to have a good rally in the city of the Quaid. I hope the PTI leaders can explain their manifesto & strategy!
cpyala
One fauji source claiming all lower staff of forces have been ordered to go to PTI rally. Private transport will appar be provided.
baylinveil
The fact that PTI is calling every household landline in Karachi w/ an Imran Khan recording personally inviting to the rally is brilliant.
2:15 pm
Saba Imtiaz reports that a few hundred supporters have arrived at the venue. The organisers have started playing PTI songs and those by Shehzad Roy and Strings to get the crowd going. PTI supporters are floating a large Pakistan flag in the crowd. According to an earlier estimate by PTI, 50,000 party flags will be distributed.
PTI's main leadership has not arrived at the venue as yet.
2:00 pm
Sufi Abdul Jalil, known as “Chacha (Uncle) Cricket”, is also present at the PTI rally. He is Pakistan’s most famous spectator and has become a prominent fixture at his country’s matches at home and abroad for nearly three decades.
1:45 pm
Saba Imtiaz reports that security arrangements and checks are quite thorough and are manned by the police and volunteers. There is separate seating for men and families.
According to a PTI official, there are 2,000 volunteers on duty. The ground can accommodate between 250,000 to 300,000 people. Around 50,000 to 60,000 chairs have been placed. There are separate arrangements for the press, PTI's senior leadership, Insaf Students Federation members and families.
1:30 pm
The Express Tribune correspondent Saba Imtiaz reports that there is a large crew of male and female volunteers at the site and flags are being distributed at the gate. Supporters are milling around but only a few dozen have made their way in.
Imtiaz reports that the roads leading to the jalsa site are festooned with PTI billboards and banners. There are a fair number of cars and motorcycles on the route with PTI flags.
COMMENTS (167)
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imran khan zindabad
PTI talks alot regarding protecting minority rights, but no policy or strategy of any sort have been put forward by imran khan assuring safety and protection to minorities. Asia bibi's case led assassinations of two of the renowned and important personalities of Pakistan but notbody has the courage to even speak about the incident on any occassion. Imran Khan should relaize that wishing minorities Merry Christmas isn't enough, they need justice and equal rights as well, and substantial representation at different levels so that no more innocent people are slaughtered the way they have been in past. And i wonder how will imran khan provide equal rights to all sects when he himself is even afraid to talk on such issues!
As someone associated with PTI for over 12 years, I was deeply disappointed by the text of Imran’s speech and the presence of certain people on the stage that most workers in the party consider persona non grata. I was appalled that the great Khan failed to utter a single word to pay homage to the PTI workers who died at that very place on May 12; never mind criticizing the facist and terrorist party that thrives on the ethnic cleansing of indigenous Pakistanis! If you are to sacrifice the truth for political expediency, then how will people differentiate between you and the PPP’s grand ‘reconciliation’ (read ‘allowing culprits to get away with murder’).
IK has all the qualities of Jinnah . He seems to be uniting Pakistan after a long period of anarchy. Hopefully he delivers what he promises. Social justice should be provided to all minorities in Pakistan and the very principle on which Pakistan was created that the muslims of this region should be in a majority , now its the responsibility of Pakistanis to take care of minorities , refugees and other ethnic societies. It should not become another Punjabi dominated government where it serves the vested interests of only a few elite class. Inclusive growth for all sections of society should be delivered. Then only Jinnah's dream for Pakistan can be realized. As an Indian and well wisher of Pakistan we really hope to see a strong and stable Pakistan .
I will not vote for PTI until they get their record straightened for our Qaum ki Beti, Ms. Siddiqui and stop supporting Jihadis.
"When I am in government, one day they will even stop Imran Khan’s own car for over speeding"....Luv you man!!!
This jalsa was history in the making and I am proud I was witness to it. The entire nation is looking towards Imran Khan to bring about change. Ik must deliver on his promises for this is Pakistan' last hope.
IK, Do not get carried away by the euphoria, governing Pakistan is a greater challenge than the World Cup. The people of Pakistan are with you. Do not, repeat do not fail them. Good luck.
Alright. I see a lot of number arguments. Did anything happen/get said that actually matters when it comes to running a country? It's his policies people find lacking. Not his entertainment value.
@Navaid - Don not worry, the urdu speaking youth and even elders are jumping in the bandwagon with King Khan 'Imran Khan" as they admire Imran Khan as their Hero and believe it is time for the change . . .Imran Khan's Tsunamie! Imran Khan and his team Zindabad!!
Jalsa Khan has done a great job so far. Now we have to see if the people carry this enthusiasm to the voting booths.
A day to remember. History was made. The day marks Pakistan's surge to prosperity. Imran Khan, you have to ask, and the public will back you. Announce FORGIVENESS for thieves who looted Pakistan and brought it to its knees - IF THEY RETURN THE LOOT.
@Ahmed: seems like US embassy staff are busy on the internet IK got very small rallies in 1990s . and if PTI is clever enough to use music,,its because its a brilliant party, are you attacking PTI for being well prepared and organized ? ahahha
Why people support MQM, the only party who did development in Karachi. why they don't vote for Nawaz and PPP? because both these parties have never done any development projects in Karachi, so in next election for sure MQM vote is intact (credit mostly goes to Mustafa Kamal). but I think alarming bell for ANP, as PTI will target there 2-3 seats which seems easy target.
come on guys! Media agreed that around 200,000 people attend PTI rally. Karachi has an estimated population of over 12 million people nowadays. With today's performance PTI can't win even a single provincial assembly seat in Karachi. All I read today on this page is that our youths do not know about the rallies by MQM and PPP in the recent past in this city. Nor the media bothers to show them the previous historical gatherings (May be the recent generation of electronic media anchors and reporters do not themselves know). So bad!!!!!
Dream Team?!?! What a joke!!!
Doctrine of necessity has forced PTI to accept all the rot from Q League and PPP
Qureshi was wrong when he said doctrine of necessity was over and done with.
It was no doubt a mammoth gathering. Imran Khan spoke eloquently about bringing life back to normal in Karachi but I was very much disappointed to find him tight lipped about an ethnic party which was responsible for 12th May carnage and many thousands of killings in Karachi, There is no need to remind Imran Khan that he locked horns with Altaf Hussain and went upto the Scotland Yard and delivered a graphic dossier about Altaf Hussain's activities which are known to everyone but they do not dare to speak. Recently Dr Mirza broke the taboo and has campaigned against Altaf both in the UK and Pakistan,
I wonder if Imran Khan has let the conscience slip away from his grasp and compromise on his principled stand to call spade a spade. Has he now started pursuing politics of hypocrisy and consider from now on Altaf Hussain a real political leader heading a political party but not a mafiosi heading a fascist party as he used to say in the aftermath of 12th May carnage,
I congratulate all the Pakistanis, today is the historic day we became one Pakistani Nation again, congratulations to all Insafians over the world especially ISF & PTI tigers from SINDH who spent day & night for its success.
Regards : Mr. Ehsen Naveed - Proud to be ISF Founder Hazara & Coordinator
Congratulations to Imran Khan on mobilizing thousands of people from Punjab and NWFP into Karachi. Let's now talk about reality, and the reality is that the Sindh Province is dominated by PPP and MQM, and there is no way in hell the PTI will ever be able to make even a 1 % gain in Sindh. Rural areas of Sindh are die hard PPP loyalists, mostly due to their Sindhi heritage, and the Urban areas of Sindh are bastions of the MQM, which again, is due to the Mahajir domination of these areas. Unfortunately, the majority of voting on election day is based on ethnic preferences, especially in Sindh, so good luck PTI, you are wasting your time in Sindh.
For IK to talk about Baluchistan as if it is another country and then sayng that we will reunite like West and East Germany did was shameful...
Baluchistan is part of Pakistan by legal rights and instruments (unlike Kashmir dispute which is a dusputed area as per UN resolutions).
Shameful performance by IK!
i dont support IK because his party is flocked with lotas. The only person now i like in politics is Mustafa Kamal or Pervez Musharraf who atleast did something for this nation whether it may be building the city or building universities as example!
@Oz and @Pakistani Hindu: Wake up brother you seem to underestimate strength of MQM on basis of some murids of Shah Mehmood and people who flocked from KPK and other areas of Pakistan to KHI for jalsa! If you realize by footage predominantly non-karachiites flocked to the place. Wake up brother!
PS: I am not a racist! :)
What a tremendous crowd....I simply can't believe my eyes that such a change has entered our beloving PAKISTAN on this very special day.......enjoyed the whole jalsa especially the heart provokening words of Imran Khan!
@Muzaffar: The reason others didn't get as much coverage because they have been tried and tested and all the did is to loot the people of Pakistan.
Qureshi says "If Pakistan ever signs “no first strike” agreement with India, its nuclear assets will be wasted and worthless, Qureshi says. He “accuses” President Zardari of ruining the deterrent value of Pakistan’s nuclear program by saying ‘no first strike’ on India"
fyi Mr. Qureshi - Indiua had announced a No First Strike policy unilaterally in 1998 - not just against Pakistan but against any country. It does not make the nuclear weapons worthless. IT prevents any other country for carrying out nuclear attacks on India - which is the purpose of having nuclear capability.
salam for imran khan and all member of pti .today i was in jalsa with my freinds , i seen tsunami of inqalab ,now i want to be a part of this tsunami .i want to join pti with my more then 50 freinds .how i can join? plz guide me thx
Look at IK?!?!
Even though in Karachi, he remained absolutely tight lipped on MQM and target killing in Karachi ... but took pot shots on Nawaz Sharif...
Biased reporting ET. Give such coverage to other parties as well. IK's coverage clearly shows that ES favors IK. Where is neutral journalism?
this was massive gathering even more then mqm julsas....i aint kiding..i myself from Karachi and this is what i m concluding after experiencing such processions for many years.....2 lacs plus estimation ..no way in the world it was less then it ...it was a super hit and well organized julsa ....one can sense IK s struggle for 15 yrs is finally showing color...was not a gr8 fan of him a while back but he has my vote now. best of luck PTI
Dream team? Moreso wet dream. Remember folks Pakistan is a federation governed by parliament, federal and provincial. Not one of the speakers on the stage in Karachi havebever done anything for the people of Karachi nor will they, so let's be fair. IK had a great day, loved the enthusiasm, IK was graceful and rest were ok.
A massive show indeed.This massive support will have to contain by PTI in order to get capitalized in election battle.The dynamics of Urban Sind is very unique from rest of Pakistan as PTI will have to face up very organized and well-structured MQM.
God bless you Imran Khan...!
@Adnan
He never said policies Will be made after. They Will be presented before elections. And Tareen Will not write them, he Will manage the team (of experts) who actually prepare the white papers. It was quite clear. Please control your anger and read\listen objectively :)
Abrar ul haq's speech was great as well
Karachi jalsa has definately guaranteed us revival of our nation....IMRAN KHANs strive for change seems to be finally paying off as people fearlessly and keeping aside their sectarial differences have shown up for a true democratic mission.It is clear enough that youth of today how youth have obtain political awareness and are now ready to fight for their rights which will eventually lead towards the benefit for the country.Khan stands with courage in his actions that itself represents sucessfull and positive change.The man with strong determination has promised us to end corruption which i believe is the main problem in Pakistan.Today i personally feel very obliged and honoured to have a leader with a good understanding feels that ultimate change will only occur after improving literacy rates in the country that will obviously assist us to overcome the problem of unemployement to reduce intense dark which we are facing for more than sixty years.The main glory of KHAN can be seen how he emphisized on merit.In the end i would say this is the first time i visualized educated people in the jalsa with full zeal and zest....whose votes will actually turn Pakistan into a welfare state.
The crowd was between 250000 to 300000 which is huge.More important the crown had "energy".
BUT PTI has a weak economic think tank,they need to do something really quick about it
IK is trying his best in the same gusto when he won the world cup for Pakistan. Best wishes for PTI from India.
It was so pleasing to see Javed Hashmi beside Imran Khan,a way much better person and leader than most of those of who joined PTI recently. Imran needed a companion like him, someone with unquestionable integrity and character. Secondly, most important part of Imran's speech was about Balochistan. The situation there is too sensitive and most of us might not feel it. It will be vital for federation of Pakistan is Balochistan responds to Imran khan's message on 23rd March.
watched the proceedings from toronto. loved it. Pakistan zindabad InshsaAllah
Dear PTI rally participants, First of all congratulation on the huge rally. I will pay Rs. 75 for all the chairs in good condition and between Rs.35-45 for chairs with some scratch mark (not broken). Can you pass along this message to the "revolutionaries" who are next to you in the rally and might not have internet access? Phone number is: 009221-32626088. Thank you.
my head hangs in shame as a pakistani about what IK said about how we treated east pakistan - bangladesh and how we still keep treating balochistan. basically IK exposed pakistan in front of the whole world that we are violating human rights of our citizens. is this the way he's going to fight for kashmir too. tomorrow india will say the same thing as well.
@Adnan: Haha don't hate appreciate.
if you really mean what you said about balochistan then you will first start by bringing to justice all the army men who killed and kidnapped balochis. if not its just empty rethoric of any poilitician.
so, Karachi finally went gaga over immo! ask yourself, what magic can he do to bind us as ONE ? what spell can a cartel of corrupt leaders cast for dissolving all of our problems ? revolutionary....yeah, lets see!
Again a huge jalsa by Imran
great crowd to watch
@Adnan: Why don't they have 'Dislike' option on the comments on this site! Darn!
Mission Accomplished!! Imran has proven his star-power yet once again. He is that star on Pakistan flag. He is a godsend that we were waiting for all along. Let the good times roll!
Congratulation to Imran Khan and PTI for organizing a great entertainment show. Also congratulations to government and all agencies for allowing it and on providing security to our brothers, sisters and their families. I hope PTI and other parties would arrange similar shows in all cities. People of Pakistan are hungry for entertainment. Their lives are dull and boring. I appreciate PTI for bringing a great cultural change in our society. Thank you very much.
First, a disclaimer, I am writing as a die hard PTI supporter. A few questions the party leadership and the Kaptaan has to address. When Shah Mahmood Qureshi accuses government of failing institutions, he needs to explain how he was made to sit on the sidelines by the successive governments and why was this allowed to happen. Jahangir Tareen needs to explain about his orchestration of the sugar crisis. Shahid Akram Bhinder needs to explain how he has been involved in the PCO subjugation of the CJ. He has to explain his corrupt history. How will IK control these safarshis and chamchagirs at election ticket time. Firsdous Ashiq Awan should never be allowed to join and how is Sardar Asif Ahmad Ali is a patriot. Why is IK including feudals and industrialists with poor human rights records? IK should trust the people and make the right decision, this change will occur and the sweeping revolution doesnot need lotas. A core of TI politicians needs to be developped which is not the current TI leadership and that should decide the party election tickets. By the way, where is Aitzaz Ahsan and the where are the lawyers and former judges and technocrats and honest beuraucrats who should now join PTI which is not IK's show now, it is the revolution which should not involve any party mergers or coalitions
I hope and pray that Imran khan is not hijacked by PML(N)....What I mean to say is that after KHI jalsa ...it is evident that PPP and PML are on the way out...and PML(N) stalwarts are opportunists so it is a chance that "two brothers" might join hands with PTI... Imran ....please remain independent........we will be with you.....
Interesting that he's going to make his policies AFTER he comes to government! And Jahangir Tareen is going to make these policies twice a month? Give me a break! PTI has no policies and relies instead on the cult of celebrity! God help Pakistan!
I only heard, we shall do this, we shall do that, ham ye kar deN ge ham wo kar deN ge.......hundreds of emotional and luring promises and the same sickening military Raga of Pakistan/India hatred and war instead of peace and reconciliation initiatives which is the vital necessity for the survival and future of Pakistan.
Why don't they take part in electoral politics if they claim to be so popular. How long will they continue to avoid it, they were beaten handsomely few they took part.
@Schaz: 200,000 !!!!!!!!!!
What would MQM be feeling right now? On the one hand, credit to them for not disrupting the PTI rally. On the other hand, no party other than MQM has ever put on such a display of strength in Karachi before. Not even the BB-led PPP.
Imran Khan has done it again and there is NO STOPPING NOW!!!!!!
Credit to Express Tribune for covering PTI rally like this despite their well-known anti-Imran editorial bias. Well done.
Q league in the making. Full of hypocrisy!
Qureshi and Kasuri and now Asif Ali - drone attacks architects. Shafqat Mehmood - cosy with Mush Legharis - corrupt , imported luxury cars without paying duty
mr imran khans novelty will soon wear off, he has already shown that he will have the same politicians with him who have been ruining the Pakistan uptick now bad news for mr qureshi, mr Hashmi has created much more excitement and seems to have more credence and popularity,
imran the king khan!
@Schaz: 400,000
Congratulations.
PTI message has been conveyed to Karachiites.
We all are with you Imran Khan and with PTI.
Inshallah, the dream of Quaid-e-Azam will come true when PTI will come into power in Pakistan.
What is the estimate of number of people attending the Jalsa???
@Mark H
You said:
“Waleed Iqbal said that “tsunami can create electricity, extract reserves, can start up shut down railway engines and make grounded PIA planes fly.”
That… Makes absolutely no sense. Not from the ability view point. From the English language/metaphor view point."
Mark, thanks for the English lesson. However, you cannot comprehend what Pakistanis and Muslims as a whole are capbale of. Despite the imposition of puppet leaders across the Muslim world. The assasination of those who opposed the western imperialist designs- we live on. We still hold on to what we believe and we strive for a better future. Given the chance and right conditions, we will creat a nation which will be a beacon for the rest of the world. Inshaallah.
Remember this...
Bagi..Bagi..Bagi..Bagi...Bagi..Bagi...Bagi !!!!!!!!!!!!
The time is right
The need for self respect is greatest
Opportunity knock on your door again
Destiny awaitsTayyib-e-Madinah
Use your vote, protect your vote to vote for self respect, for honour and real governance is a great Sunnah of Rasool Allah (SAW).
Say no to the zamindars and Jagidars - say yes only to a united progressive and modern Pakistan.
Accept ALL your failings and make the neeyah for chnage in your heart today.
Say your Istaghfars and rebuild the nation and reclaim it's shelved revolution.
Let the revolution continue
Pakistan Zindabad Pakistan Paindabad
Primeminister Imran Khan Step Forward we are with you
Imran Khan...i am your silent supporter.I am living outside Pakistan .If i get a chance to vote ...i am with you.Best of luck Sir
SMQ is also being trended on Twitter NOW
Pakistani have taken over TWITTER WORLD
Javed Hashmi addresses the rally, amid shouts of “Ek Bahadur Aadmi, Hashmi, Hashmi”. “...Today is the birthday of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. When he made this country, he wanted to ensure justice for Muslims of the subcontinent...” <<< WHAT ABOUT THE MINORITIES?! Only muslims get justice? This country is hopeless.
So, guys, Is this one bigger than the one that was in Lahore?
Go Zardari Go is trending on twitter WORLDWIDE
DIlDilPakistanBad news for USA. This means beginning of the end of banana republic politics in Pakistan.
PTI will make history today Inshaa Allah. Go imran, we are with you!
For the first time my hopes, wishes and dreams to see Pakistan one of the best in the world is more closer than ever. We all promise that we would not step back and bring this dream come true under the leadership of Imran Khan. We love Pakistan.
Nice to see the leadership in shalwar-kameez !!!!
OMG!!!!
Dil Dil Pakistan is trending worldwideHI everyone from pakistan i am Rahil im an indian muslim and im really happy that finally most of the pakistani people have now decided to to follow the great IMRAN KHAN whose integrity and intelligence and his leadership is by far among the best in the muslim world , i really love imran khan and inspired by his motivational speeches go all you guys make him the next prime minister you have got the chance its now or never you can bring the revolution and make history ,I want pakistan to b a leader among all muslim countries ..............
Whats the latest count?? Easily over 200,000 people i bet..
And guess what #Dil Dil Pakistan is at the 4th position on the Worldwide Tends on Twitter.. :) #PtiJalsa Rocks - #ImranKhanCheeta #Proud to be a Pakistani - #PakistanZindabad.. :P
100,000 is a very conservative and biased estimate!
This is Tsunami
100,000? NO WAY rough guess should be 350,000 to 400,000
Way to go to KARACHI!!! U beat us Lahoris in attendance!
PTI is giving it unity and love. Not hatred. Time for a new Pakistan.
Go Imran Khan, God will help u and v all with u. I am watching ur live rally on TV. very excited and pray for peace and calm. I hope, the people realized that only Imran can bring changes in the country politics. Plz Karachi Walo Imran ka saath do
@Ahmed: The crowd is around 20,000 people from almost every city of Pakistan. It is big according as far as Imran's jalsas are concerned.
according to my friends from Pakistan at jalsa its more then 300,000 people, because most of them around the Mazar itself.
Jalsa-cum-concert; PTI management is clever they know that this nation is fond of Jalsa and Jaloos but won't come out for a vote. So they are using concert-cum-Jalsa or vice versa to attract politicians so they can get few seats as well.
Like what happened when Imran contested first time, there were huge gatherings everywhere but when time of vote came he was lucky enough to get a single seat for him and single seat for his party.
IMRAAAN, go 4 Pakistan Cup, we are with you.
Its 3:45, update with two lines at least. We are on duty and waiting 4 your updates.
tomorrow MQM can do bigger than this jalsa so what would that mean? does it mean imran 's Inqalab is back?
Send someone who knows how to count. 100,000 were there at 8am and how many are there now you cant count. Forget conservative count.
@Shehzad Akhwandzada:
Yes he is and its unfortunate!
In IK's Qasoor rally people helped themselves with chairs, wasn't that a sad spectacle! some guys even raided the stage to get shiny ones, I mean come on vote for IK.
Go imran, for Pakistan Cup, we are with you
@Shehzad Akhwandzada: yes, i saw that video
I cannot see thousands yet. Is there any proper coverage of crowd. People appearing in pics are few dozens or in hundreds.
Is Salman Ahmed the one who called "Islam is a sexy religion" in BBC program ?
@Acorn Guts:
But with what? same old tested faces???
Previously PTI was a party with workers sans leaders. Now they have imported leaders from other parties, but at what cost? At the cost of change.
Be realistic, wait and see. Do whatever is in best interest of Pakistan when time comes. But right now, it is a time we need to be skeptical.
Wait, 10,000-15,000 people? Aren't you missing another 0? This is amazing to watch. First Lahore, then Karachi. History in the making.
"Waleed Iqbal said that “tsunami can create electricity, extract reserves, can start up shut down railway engines and make grounded PIA planes fly.”
That... Makes absolutely no sense. Not from the ability view point. From the English language/metaphor view point.
Best of luck all PTI'ies for saving and Serving PAKISTAN, all nation with you.
i am so excited for the chairs
Karachiites, Tsunami is here... be a part of it or get swept away... two choices.
Break the shackle of fear created by any party and support the right cause...
me in jalsa
Why arent you updating the jalsa coverage. Last update has been provided at 04:15 pm. Almost 30 mins back. Kindly update.
hay PAKISTANI show that we are just paki no punjabi ,sindhi,blochi...............etc lets unite under the umbrellla of PTI....ME SITTTING TOOO far but my wishes are wd u.stay blesssed u alll.PAK zindaabad n imran khan Panidabad
@Shahid Butt: Is the jalsa wi-fi enabled?
How were you able to get on the Internet.
after lahore now its party time for karachities.....
I support Imran Khan all the way (before it was mainstream) and did so in the formal & informal presence of pro PPP and MQM people. My organization and colleagues have donated heavily to the PTI, SKMH and Imran Khan causes. But I just don't see the functional point of attending this Jalsa. Kudo's to the supporters, and I hope he gets elected.
Congragulations Pakistan IK we r with u.. jag utha hai karachi ab ... Thanks PTI jiyallas
This Marks the End of Ethnic politics in Karachi!!!
update photos also...
Patriots make this a biggg success....need to support whoever talks about justice peace and prosperity for all. Tribune please update the website we want to know whats happening
@imkhalid: Great & Thanks
We arent you updating the jalsa coverage. Last update has been provided at 03:15 pm.
Btw watching it live even though it's 3am :)
@Tehreek-e-Insaf FATA: So far we are beaten by Lahore. Karachi needs to get more passion and crowd to beat out Lahore.
Is DJ Butt attending the rally today? Just curious :)
@Pakistani Christian: Born and bred Karachiite. Not an MQM supporter. Also plz look up definition of racism.
Watch Live Karachi Jalsa PTI
http://www.livestream.com/ptiofficial
Change is in the air...Tehreek e Insaf all the way..!!
Imran Khan people of Pakistan have many expectations from you ! Hope that InshAllah you would come upto them !! Best of luck for your Karachi Really !!
Unfortunate that the media both Electronic and Newspaper is bias, especially Express. How come such coverage is not given to others primarily the religious parties. Think the week before last the three large jalsas held in Lahore,R'Pindi and Peshawar by different religious parties only got few seconds coverage whereas PTI, PMLN, MQM and any other these type of parties get massive coverage.
Note: There readers need not think that I am a bearded guy. I am also a Mummy Daddy type living in the up market locality.
I have raised this point to be fair which we all try to say but in actuality we have our own bias's.
@Pakistani Christian: Not all of us do Mr Jonathan Marx. And NEVER will. period.
This rally needs over 200,000 people for it to successful n make IK's critics realise no matter how much they criticise him imrany tsunami is getting bigger n bigger!!
Dear Karachiites,
Don't miss it! Trust me the regret of NOT being there when history was in the making is unbearable. It's your chance. Stand up and be counted.
Sincerely, A Lahorite who missed out on the Lahore Jalsa
@Pakistani Christian: I live in Karachi, and I do not support MQM. Period. :p
@Pakistani Hindu and that's racism. Karachi supports MQM. Period. Best Regards, Jonathan Marx.
imran khan mens give us free shirts and flags to everybody im come from kashmore. one men 1 flag. very good. khans pti.
We are really waiting for you Imran Khan........ Buhat ho chuka Pakistan k sath Hamary naik tamanai Imran Khan K sath Hain...
Juz leaving for Mazar-e-quaid with ma friends...!!
I wish IK can bring Karachi into mainstarem politics again. Lets see if Altaf Hussain congratulates Imran Khan this time also.He does not loose anything anyway.Not one MQM supporter will vote for IK party unless Mr.Khan,s magic can break the barriers ereceted by years of communial politics.
Lets throw the decades of corruption and bad governance out .. Give PTI a chance ... Pakistan Zindabad!
Hope to see this Jalsa as the biggest and the most successful one ever!
Good luck Imran... Make a change today...
Its 2 PM and i saw two buses parked at a camp of PTI waiting for passengers :) a few non local workers trying to pursue people to ride free to Gurumandar
hello, Karachities.........
Go for it to save Pakistan.........
I have reached Karachi with around 800 people from Gujranwala, InshaAllah Khan will bring change! Tsnami coming to Karachi. get ready !
PTI is going to rock Karachi ! Jea Imran Khan !
Please Mr.IK no plastic chairs this time. I have so many plastic chairs in my house that there is no space to even stand !
Bets of Luck Imran Khan
Its your CHANCE Karachi... For the first time in History, LAHORE wants you to BEAT Them...
Are you ready Karachiites??? Give me a hell yeah! ! !
PTI will make history today Inshaa Allah. Go imran, we are with you!