The Pakistani government is intensifying its efforts to prevent large-scale protests as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party prepares for what it has termed a “final call” protest on November 24, 2024. Key party leaders, including Nafeesa Khattak and Akmal Khan Bari, have been detained as authorities ramp up security measures across Punjab and Islamabad.
Pre-emptive Arrests and Raids
The police launched a series of arrests, detaining PTI Punjab Vice President Akmal Khan Bari and other prominent figures such as former Member of Parliament Nafeesa Khattak. These arrests are part of a broader strategy to limit PTI’s mobilization ahead of the planned protest. Bari, despite his detention, expressed defiance, claiming that the protest would go ahead as planned.
| Key Arrests and Actions | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Akmal Khan Bari | Lahore | Nov 23 |
| Nafeesa Khattak | Islamabad | Nov 23 |
| Chaudhry Habib Rehman | Lahore | Nov 23 |
Security Measures Across Islamabad
In anticipation of the protest, Islamabad has been fortified with heavy security. The city is under lockdown with key routes to the Red Zone closed using shipping containers. A total of 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed to ensure law and order.
Authorities have also implemented Section 144, which bans public gatherings in the capital. Major highways connecting Islamabad to Lahore and Peshawar have been shut, and public transportation services, including the metro bus, have been suspended. These measures are designed to limit PTI supporters’ ability to congregate and march toward the protest site at D-Chowk.
Government’s Security Preparations
The federal and provincial governments have ramped up their efforts to prevent the PTI’s demonstration. Section 144 has been invoked across Punjab, banning public gatherings from November 23 to 25. Security personnel from various regions, including Punjab, Sindh, and Azad Kashmir, have been deployed to maintain order, with high-ranking officers overseeing the operations.
| Security Deployment | Region | Personnel Deployed |
|---|---|---|
| Punjab | Islamabad | 19,000 |
| Sindh | Islamabad | 5,000 |
| Frontier Corps | Islamabad | 5,000 |
| Azad Kashmir Police | Islamabad | 1,000 |
PTI’s Defiant Stance
PTI has vowed to proceed with its protest despite the arrests and the security crackdown. Party spokespersons argue that the protest is their constitutional right. Sheikh Waqas Akram, PTI’s central information secretary, reiterated the party’s commitment to the protest, claiming it would be a demonstration of public support for party leader Imran Khan.
PTI’s Legal Challenge
In response to a ruling by the Islamabad High Court (IHC) banning public rallies, PTI has announced plans to challenge the decision. Party leader Imran Khan’s legal team is preparing to contest the ruling, arguing that their planned protest will remain peaceful.
Government’s Tough Stance
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has firmly stated that no protests will be allowed in light of the IHC ruling. The government is determined to enforce the ban on public gatherings, warning that any attempt to disrupt the peace would be met with severe consequences.
Minister Naqvi also hinted at potential negotiations with PTI, but emphasized that any plans for sit-ins would lead to further complications. His comments reflect the government’s hardline stance against the PTI’s plans.
Conclusion
As the PTI prepares for its protest on November 24, the Pakistani government is taking unprecedented steps to prevent the rally. With widespread arrests, enhanced security, and road closures, both sides are bracing for heightened tensions. The outcome of this standoff will likely shape the political landscape in the coming weeks, as the PTI insists on demonstrating its strength, while the government emphasizes the rule of law.
