Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi urged the PTI to reconsider its planned rally at Islamabad’s D-Chowk on Thursday, as several foreign dignitaries, including the Malaysian prime minister, are visiting the city.
The PTI has been organizing protests across the country. PTI members are opposing the imprisonment of its founder, Imran Khan, and demanding the Election Commission implement the Supreme Court’s ruling on reserved seats.
Naqvi expressed concerns over holding a rally during such a sensitive time, stressing the need for tightened security measures.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and other PTI leaders have pledged to attend the rally on October 4. Party members stated that they would reach Islamabad no matter how long it takes.
Gandapur and others party members promised to held rally peacefully.
On this request of Gandapur Naqvi highlighted the enforcement of Section 144 in the capital, which prohibits public gatherings in restricted areas.
Naqvi explained that a rally in the capital during high-profile visits could harm Pakistan’s reputation.
He pointed out that the political parties have the right to protest. But the timing of PTI protest is not inappropriate.
A location for rallies has already been designated, and Naqvi urged the PTI to follow legal procedures if they wish to proceed.
He warned the PTI against breaching security protocols. Naqvi emphasized that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to handle any situation.
Naqvi also appealed to Gandapur about the protest. He asked him to reconsider the protest schedule as it would reflect poorly on his position as a provincial leader.
Minister made it clear that any violations would be dealt with strictly and without leniency. He added that PTI should avoid causing unnecessary disruptions during this critical period.
