Imran Khan Supporters’ March Reaches Islamabad

Islamabad, November 25, 2024 – A large-scale march by supporters of Pakistan’s imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan has reached the outskirts of Islamabad, escalating tensions as protesters demand his release. The march, led by members of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has set its sights on a sit-in demonstration outside the parliament.

In response, Pakistani authorities have imposed a strict security lockdown, with shipping containers blocking key roads and large contingents of police and paramilitary forces patrolling the capital. The government has taken further measures to prevent the protesters from reaching the city, including halting public transport between cities, particularly in the eastern province of Punjab.

Provincial Information Minister Uzma Bukhari confirmed that around 80 protesters had been arrested, while several police officers were injured in clashes and riots in various parts of Punjab. The government has stated that it will not allow any attempt to storm the capital, maintaining that security forces are prepared to handle the situation.

The unrest comes just ahead of a visit to Islamabad by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, adding an extra layer of security in the capital.

As the situation unfolds, the government remains firm in its stance, aiming to quell any potential disruptions while managing the growing demands from Khan’s supporters for his release.