Pakistan: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to start opposition march towards Islamabad from Karachi Feb. 27

Event

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will lead a nationwide anti-government protest march along National Highway 5 (N-5) from Karachi to Islamabad beginning 10:00 Feb. 27. The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) - a coalition of opposition parties - is also supporting the demonstration. Organizers are denouncing inflation and other policies of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) administration. The PPP leaders' caravan will address rallies in 34 urban centers in all provinces. The event will conclude with a public rally in Islamabad, reportedly announcing the date for filing a no-confidence motion against the government. The announced stops include:

• Feb. 27: The march will start at 10:00 from the Mazar-e-Quaid memorial in Karachi, and reach Badin via Thatta and Sujawal.

• Feb. 28: The caravan will pass Hyderabad, Hala, and Nawabshah before reaching Moro.

• March 1: The march will reach Sukkur after stopping in Khairpur.

• March 2: The vehicle convoy will leave Sukkur for Rahim Yar Khan via Ghotki.

• March 3: PPP leaders will enter Multan via Bahawalpur and Lodhran.

• March 4: The march will arrive in Sahiwal via Khanewal and Chichawatni.

• March 5: The caravan will reach Lahore from Sahiwal via Okara and Pattoki.

• March 9: Estimated date of arrival at Islamabad; leaders said around 5, 000 participants will join the caravan entering Islamabad.

Specific details of other rallies en route to Islamabad are unclear. Potential gathering sites include government buildings, public squares, and major intersections. Hundreds of people may participate in each demonstration. Additional unannounced gatherings are possible, mainly at provincial and district headquarters.

Heightened security measures are almost certain at rally sites and along the march route. Increased security deployment, security cordons, personnel and vehicle checks, as well as roadblocks preventing entry to major cities like Islamabad are likely. Authorities may conduct preventive arrests or disperse large gatherings, potentially resulting in retaliatory protests. Localized business disruptions could occur in case of violence. Participants may clash with security officers and/or members of rival parties.

Advice

Avoid rallies due to possible violence. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently. Allow additional travel time near demonstrations. Confirm business appointments. Monitor trusted local media for updates on rally venues, as organizers may not announce them in advance. Heed all security and traffic advisories.