Pakistan: Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan party to protest in Karachi, Sindh Province, Feb. 12

Event

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) party plan to protest at Fawara Chowk in Karachi, Sindh Province, Feb. 12 to denounce local government elections in Karachi and Hyderabad. Organizers did not specify a start time for the gathering. Related protests are also possible at other venues such as Karachi Press Club, political party offices, government buildings, public squares or grounds, and major thoroughfares. Dozens to a few hundred people could join the action.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor the demonstration and attempt to disperse the gathering if it is especially disruptive. Clashes between protesters and police, as well as MQM-P activists and supporters of opposing rival political groups, cannot be ruled out. Activists may march along or block nearby roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions are possible in the event of a large turnout.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration as a standard security precaution. Allow extra time to reach destinations near the impacted area Feb. 12. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.