17 May 2023 | 10:30 AM UTC
Pakistan: Activists staging march in Lahore as of the afternoon of May 17
Activists marching in Lahore, Pakistan, as of the afternoon of May 17. Additional rallies planned through May 22. Avoid rallies.
Event
The Pakistan Muslim League - Quaid e Azam Group (PML-Q) party is staging a march from Muslim League House to the Press Club in Lahore as of the afternoon of May 17. The purpose of the march, which began at 15:00, is to demonstrate solidarity with the country's armed forces, in light of recent attacks targeting military installations. Organizers have also called for rallies in other cities through May 22. Participation is unclear, but dozens to hundreds of people could join the events. The specific start times and assembly locations of the upcoming demonstrations are unclear, but rallies are planned in various cities on the following dates, including:
May 18: Quetta
May 19: Karachi
May 20: Peshawar
May 21: Islamabad
May 22: Gilgit
Authorities will likely deploy additional security in and around potential rally sites. Typical gathering sites include government buildings, prominent squares in city centers, and main thoroughfares. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to increased security measures. Violence cannot be ruled out, particularly if participants become unruly or counterprotests occur in the vicinity.
Advice
Avoid all protests; allow additional travel time near potential protest sites. Monitor trusted local sources for updates on rallies and related disruptions, as organizers may not announce time or location details in advance. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area.
