Pakistan: Political parties to rally nationwide July 7

Event

Activists affiliated with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI), and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) parties will protest nationwide to denounce the recent burning of the Quran in Sweden. Prime Minister and PML-N party leader Shehbaz Sharif has called other political parties and activists to join the rallies. Although organizers did not immediately reveal specific assembly points, typical gathering sites include prominent government buildings, mosques, monuments, press clubs, public squares or grounds, and thoroughfares; activists are also highly likely to gather near the Embassy of Sweden in Islamabad and other consulate buildings in Karachi and Lahore. While participation will vary by locale, larger gatherings will probably attract thousands of participants.

Authorities will likely monitor such rallies and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Officials may implement enhanced measures, including temporary road closures and vehicular checks. Clashes between police and activists, as well as among supporters of opposing rival camps, cannot be ruled out. Activists may also attempt to storm Swedish diplomatic facilities and commit acts of arson and/or vandalism. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible through the evening of July 7.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near the gathering site. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.