In Islamabad, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is gearing up for a major rally scheduled for Sunday, with the primary objective of demanding the release of the party’s founder, Imran Khan. The rally, which is set to take place in the Sangjani area, has become a focal point of political tension, reflecting broader concerns about the state of the judiciary and government interference in democratic processes.
On the eve of the rally, Asad Qaiser, a leading figure within PTI, visited the venue alongside Mehmood Achakzai, a Member of the National Assembly, to oversee the preparations. During his visit, Qaiser expressed apprehension over what he perceives as governmental attempts to undermine judicial independence. He claimed that the government is working on a judicial package designed to weaken the judiciary, which he argues would further erode democratic principles.
Qaiser voiced his concerns about what he described as intimidation tactics employed by the government. He accused the administration of threatening PTI’s Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) and pressuring senators to support government policies. According to Qaiser, these tactics are part of a broader strategy to suppress opposition voices and consolidate power.
Qaiser emphasised that the rally is not merely a political demonstration but a crucial referendum on the rule of law. He argued that despite efforts to marginalise PTI and restrict its participation in elections, public support for the party remains robust. The significant turnout and participation in the rally preparations, he asserted, demonstrate the enduring commitment of PTI’s supporters.
He also highlighted the importance of the rally in asserting PTI’s constitutional rights. Qaiser underscored that the party has secured all necessary permissions, including a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local administration. Any attempt to obstruct the rally, he warned, would be deemed illegal.
The rally comes against the backdrop of recent legal developments affecting Imran Khan. Qaiser informed that recent amendments to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) laws have effectively cleared Khan of charges related to the Toshakhana and Al-Qadir Trust cases. These changes, he claimed, have been affirmed by both Parliament and the Supreme Court, thus resolving the legal issues that have surrounded Khan.
The PTI leader reassured supporters that despite potential obstacles, the party remains committed to holding the rally and upholding its legal and constitutional rights. He emphasized that Khan has the right to continue pursuing his cases in court, and the party will not be deterred by any attempts to impede their activities.
Earlier in the day, PTI issued an advisory to its ticket holders and assembly members, instructing them to mobilise significant numbers of supporters for the rally. Members of the National Assembly and Members of Parliament have been asked to bring at least 500 workers each. Those coming from more distant areas are expected to bring 150 workers. This large mobilisation effort reflects the party’s determination to demonstrate its strength and solidarity during the rally.
As the rally approaches, it is clear that PTI’s demonstration in Islamabad will serve as a significant political statement. With Imran Khan’s release at the forefront of the agenda, the event is poised to be a high-stakes show of force, not only in terms of political mobilization but also in the ongoing struggle over the future of Pakistan’s judiciary and democratic integrity.
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