Pakistan: Opposition rally to be held in Lahore July 23

Event

Opposition activists from the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) are expected to hold a protest march in Lahore on Sunday, July 23, in connection to an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The march, demanding his resignation, is expected to begin at the Lahore Press Club and end at Aiwan-e-Iqbal. Related protests may also be held in other major cities across the country over coming weeks; as a precaution, avoid any political demonstrations.

Context

On July 17, a hearing for the investigation into Prime Minister Sharif's financial dealings took place at the Supreme Court in the capital Islamabad. On July 12, authorities banned gatherings of five or more people in the city for two months. Nonetheless, protests leading up to or following additional hearings over the coming weeks are possible in major cities across the country, including Islamabad.

The Supreme Court has been investigating corruption allegations levied against Sharif since October 2016. Imran Khan, an opposition leader, petitioned the court to investigate Sharif after financial documents were leaked in April 2016 that listed Sharif’s two sons and a daughter as holders of offshore accounts. Sharif is accused of using those accounts for tax evasion and money laundering.

Advice

Individuals in Lahore and other major cities are advised to exercise extreme caution and to avoid all demonstrations and gatherings. Keep abreast of the situation over the coming weeks and follow any instructions issued by the 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.