Pakistan: Political party calls for protests at major intersections in Karachi, Sindh Province, Jan. 26

Event

The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) political party has called for protests at major intersections in Karachi, Sindh Province, Jan. 26. While organizers have not announced specific gathering points, protests are likely along routes such as the I. I. Cundrigar, M. A. Jinnah, Napier, and Shahrah-e-Faisal roads. Several dozen to a couple of hundred people will likely attend individual gatherings. Participants intend to denounce the Local Government (LG) Act passed by the provincial government under the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP); opposition parties claim the law undermines municipal bodies. JI supporters have held a sit-in outside the Sindh Assembly building since Jan. 1; additional rallies are possible at other popular protest locations like public squares and government buildings.

Security personnel will likely monitor protests and may try to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Clashes between police and protesters are possible. Transport disruptions are likely along roadways where protests are occurring; increased traffic congestion is possible on alternate routes. Protests may block traffic on roads leading to Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport (KHI).

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Seek alternative routes is necessary. Allow additional travel time near protests.