Imran Khan's Supporters Attempt to Seize Streets, Islamabad Locked Down

Photo : AP

Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, faced a lockdown on Saturday as security forces surged into the city and mobile internet services were cut, responding to a wave of protests by supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. These demonstrations erupted as Khan's loyalists attempted to seize control of the streets, expressing their discontent against the current government.

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Khan, who has been barred from participating in the upcoming February elections, faces a myriad of legal challenges that have sidelined him politically. The election process has been tainted by accusations of rigging, further fueling the unrest. Despite the crackdown, Khan's supporters have maintained a steady rhythm of protests, challenging the government's authority and calling for his release.

Activists associated with Khan's party began their journey towards Islamabad from their stronghold in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Friday. However, they encountered significant resistance in the form of shipping container roadblocks and tear gas deployed by law enforcement. On Saturday, smaller, scattered convoys continued to converge on the capital, defying government orders that included the deployment of troops to ensure security in light of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit scheduled for October 15.

In a show of solidarity, Khan expressed pride in his supporters for their resilience, stating they showed unwavering courage in overcoming obstacles.

Protests were also planned in Lahore, but the primary motorway connecting the city to Islamabad was blocked, hindering the movement of Khan's supporters. Human rights organizations condemned the communications cuts and roadblocks, stating that they violate citizens' rights to free expression, access to information, peaceful assembly, and movement. These restrictions are characterized as part of a disturbing trend of curtailing the right to protest in Pakistan.

Imran Khan, aged 72, served as Pakistan's prime minister from 2018 until 2022 when he was ousted via a parliamentary no-confidence vote after a rift with the military, which is often seen as the real power broker in the country. Following his ouster, Khan has faced an unprecedented series of legal challenges that he claims are politically motivated efforts to hinder his return to power.

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