12 May 2017 | 03:42 AM UTC
Pakistan: Protest planned in Karachi May 14
The Pak Sarzameen Party (PSP) is planning to hold a demonstration in Karachi on May 14; expect increased security measures and traffic disruptions
Event
Leaders of the opposition political party Pak Sarzameen Party (PSP) are scheduled to hold a protest in Karachi on Sunday, May 14. PSP leaders are calling it a “Million March” and have invited other opposition groups, such as the Pakistan Sunni Tehreek (PST), to participate in the demonstration. The march is expected to take place on the Shahrah-e-Faisal road, which connects the city to the Jinnah International Airport (KHI). Expect increased security measures and localized traffic disruptions in the city.
Context
The PSP is protesting against what they claim is poor governance by the regional authorities and inadequate civic facilities in the city. They also blame the current Sindh government for ignoring key issues that impact the citizens of Karachi. In April, the group held an 18-day sit-in outside the Karachi Press Club to protest the same grievances.
Advice
Individuals present in Karachi are advised to avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, to anticipate a significant security presence and transportation disruptions in the vicinity of any rallies, and to follow any instructions issued by local authorities.
As a reminder, Western governments advise their citizens against nonessential travels to Pakistan, due a nationwide high threat from terrorism, kidnapping, and sectarian violence. Travel should only be considered with strict security protocols in place.
