Pakistan: Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) to hold rally in Lahore Oct. 21

Event

The Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), or PML(N), will hold a rally at the Minar-e-Pakistan tower in the Greater Iqbal Park area of Lahore on Oct. 21. The purpose of the action is to commemorate former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's return to the country. The event start time remained immediately unclear. Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif will address the gathering. If well-attended, the demonstration could attract upwards of millions of participants.

Officials have granted PML(N) leaders permission to hold the rally as of Oct. 16, but the gathering date and location could change at short notice due to organizational or law enforcement-related restrictions. Additional rallies are possible on Oct. 21. Potential gathering sites include political party offices, government buildings, public squares, and/or thoroughfares. Rival political groups may stage counterdemonstrations with little-to-no notice that same day.

Authorities will almost certainly monitor any such gatherings that materialize. Officials could use force, including tear gas and baton charges, to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Enhanced security measures, such as traffic advisories, roadblocks, and/or vehicular checks, are highly likely. Isolated clashes between police and activists, as well as between rival political groups, cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators will likely march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.

Context

The rally on Oct. 21 in Lahore's Greater Iqbal Park holds great political significance as Nawaz Sharif is set to return from a four-year exile in the UK. Sharif, a three-time former prime minister with a complex political history, remains Pakistan's longest-serving prime minister. His departure for medical treatment in the UK in 2019 stirred controversy and impacted Pakistan's political landscape by contributing to a period of uncertainty and polarization. The rally, aimed at celebrating his return, is expected to draw a large crowd and will almost certainly be closely monitored by authorities, with the potential for counterdemonstrations and increased security measures due to its political significance.

Advice

Avoid any demonstration that materializes as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near any gathering sites. Heed all official transport and security advisories.