13 Apr 2022 | 06:06 AM UTC
Pakistan: Heightened security in place ahead of a planned April 16 assembly session in Punjab Province
Political rallies probable around a key assembly session in Punjab Province, Pakistan, April 16. Tight security in place; clashes possible.
Event
The Punjab provincial assembly will likely convene April 16 to elect a new chief minister, after chief minister and Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaaf (PTI) leader Usman Buzdar resigned April 1. However, the session or election may be postponed at short notice pending court orders. Opposition parties claim to have the support of sufficient dissident PTI members to gain a majority in the 371-member assembly; they aim to elect Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Hamza Shahbaz Sharif as the new chief minister. Officials have tightened security in Lahore ahead of the planned session; political clashes, celebratory rallies, and protests may occur across the province, mainly in Lahore and other cities. Hundreds of people may join political events.
Paramilitary forces have deployed to secure the parliament building. Section 144 orders prohibiting unauthorized public assemblies of more than four people, as well as pillion riding on motorcycles, are in place in Lahore; the orders also empower local officials to impose stricter controls such as curfews. Heightened security measures such as security cordons, road closures, entry and exit controls in cities, as well as personnel and vehicle checks are probable.
Activists may stage street marches, sit-ins, and roadblocks. Popular rally venues include the assembly building, the Lahore High Court, public squares, political party offices, and major traffic intersections. Localized transport and business disruptions may occur during gatherings, particularly if demonstrators occupy nearby roads. Demonstrators may clash with police and/or rival party members, as well as engage in arson and vandalism. Security forces may forcibly disperse disruptive crowds, prompting retaliatory violence and protests.
Advice
Avoid any protests as a precaution. Plan for possible localized transport and business disruptions near rally sites, especially in Lahore. If clashes erupt nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe, non-government building. Monitor trusted local media for protest details as organizers may not announce them in advance. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
