Pakistan: Activists end sit-in protest in Swat District as of Oct. 12 /update 1

Event

Activists have ended the sit-in protest that they had been staging in Swat District's Mingora city as of Oct. 12. The organizers ended their action after an agreement was reached in negotiations with the local administration. The protest was catalyzed by the recent killing of a school bus driver.

Nevertheless, protests could resume over the coming weeks if the activists believe officials have reneged on their promises. Any new demonstrations would almost certainly prompt authorities to deploy increased security in affected areas, resulting in localized business and transport disruptions.

Swat District is approximately 117 km (73 miles) northeast of Peshawar.

Advice

Exercise caution near potential protest locations over the coming days until it becomes clear that no further demonstrations are imminent. If new gatherings do materialize, avoid them and heed the instructions of local security officials.