Pakistan: Former Prime Minister Imran Khan calls for additional nationwide rallies as of May 14 following violent protests over his May 9 arrest /update 5

Event

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for additional protests across Pakistan from 17:30 May 14. Specific venue details of party events are unclear. Authorities detained Khan on May 9 in a corruption case, though he obtained bail May 12. His party, the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI), has held violent and disruptive protests denouncing his arrest since May 9, with up to a few thousand supporters gathering in cities. Protests in the past days have left a few hundred people injured and damaged several buildings and vehicles linked to the government and/or military. The military has deployed to the worst-affected areas of Islamabad city, as well as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces. Although mobile internet services have resumed nationwide as of May 13, curbs on social media platforms continue indefinitely. Punjab Province is also sustaining restrictions on public gatherings.

Heightened security deployment remains nationwide. Security forces have used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse protesters, mainly to prevent or control arson, vandalism, and/or forcible entry targeting military sites. PTI claims at least eight members have died in police action, while dozens have sustained injuries. Officials state over 145 government workers and security officers are wounded. Authorities have detained at least 1,800 protesters and top PTI leaders including former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Activists will almost certainly defy any security restrictions to hold further protests, prompting mass arrests and altercations with security personnel. Precautionary business and school closures are possible in the coming days. Business operations and travel may face significant disruptions if serious and/or widespread violence breaks out in the coming days, mainly if Khan faces attacks or arrest.

Civil Unrest
Large protests are occurring or are planned in several cities like Faisalabad, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, Quetta, and Rawalpindi. Popular protest sites include the Police Lines Headquarters in the H-11 area of Islamabad, the Millenium Mall in Karachi, Liberty Chowk in Lahore, Nawa Shehar Chowk in Multan, Bala Hisar Fort in Peshawar, and the Saddar area of Rawalpindi.

Activists typically hold sit-ins, marches, and/or road blockades at or near government buildings, military installations, public squares, press clubs, railway stations, and along major roadways connecting cities. Large turnouts are likely at events near Khan's Zaman Park residence in Lahore, PTI headquarters in cities like Karachi's Insaf House, as well as near court buildings in Islamabad. Arson and vandalism of public property and vehicles, and shutdown strikes cannot be ruled out.

Localized transport disruptions and a heavy police presence are likely near any large demonstrations that may materialize. Protests could turn violent quickly; security forces are usually quick to resort to the use of force to disperse unruly gatherings. Counter-rallies by ruling party supporters may result in clashes. Businesses in areas experiencing violent protests and/or heightened security measures could close temporarily as a precaution. Ground shipping disruptions are likely if prolonged blockades affect arterial routes.

Security Measures
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture, mainly in Islamabad and other cities, until protests abate. The tightest security measures such as personnel and vehicle checks, as well as entry restrictions, are likely near sensitive government buildings, military facilities, and diplomatic offices. Section 144 orders prohibiting unauthorized public gatherings of over four people, and the carriage of arms in public, are active across Punjab Province; they may recur in urban centers like Islamabad ahead of planned rallies. Police have previously suspended power supply to the vicinity of Khan's residence in Lahore to disperse crowds; similar measures causing water and power outages cannot be ruled out at or near other protest sites. Enhanced measures including curfews and the expansion of telecommunication curbs are possible at short notice.

Official Advisories
Since May 9, several countries such as Canada, and the UK, and the US are cautioning their citizens in Pakistan to avoid demonstrations. However, travel risk assessments remain unchanged at moderate to high levels.

Context

Khan faces over 100 lawsuits, mainly over alleged corruption during his prime ministerial term, as well as purported hate speech and violence during antigovernment rallies by his PTI party. PTI supporters allege the cases are an act of persecution by the country's political and military establishments. Demonstrations are likely to escalate further if Khan is arrested or receives unfavourable court verdicts in pending cases that threaten his participation in future elections.

Advice

Avoid all protests and roadblocks due to possible violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm business appointments, deliveries, transport reservations, and road status, especially if operating in cities. Plan for potential utility outages if near major protest sites; stockpile drinking water and ensure generators are functional. Allow additional travel time in downtown areas in the coming days; exercise caution near government buildings and military installations and all concentrations of security forces. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks, especially in cities. Monitor trusted local media for updates on protest details, as organizers may announce or modify them at short notice. Heed all security and traffic advisories.