05 Mar 2024 | 07:15 PM UTC
Pakistan: Post-election rallies likely to continue nationwide through at least mid-March /update 8
Protest activity likely to persist across Pakistan through at least mid-March following general elections. Exercise caution.
Activist groups will almost certainly continue their ongoing series of rallies across Pakistan through at least mid-March following the nation's Feb. 8 general elections. Various political parties and coalitions, including the PTI, Awami National Party (ANP), Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F), and Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP), have held protests in several locations, including Karachi and Rawalpindi. On March 10, the PTI party will launch a nationwide protest campaign in reaction to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's March 4 inauguration for an additional term in office. PTI leaders plan to seek support from other opposition parties and coalitions to join their planned action.
Although no other details were immediately available concerning additional gatherings, further demonstrations of varying types are highly likely over the coming days. Potential protest sites include prominent political party offices, government buildings, police stations, public squares, sports fields, press clubs, and thoroughfares. Larger rallies could draw hundreds of thousands of attendees.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain an increased security presence over the coming days. Officials suspended mobile telecommunication and internet services during and immediately following the general elections due to security concerns, in addition to imposing public gathering restrictions in several parts of the country, including the capital. The decision came after a surge of violence preceding the elections in certain restive areas of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.
Attacks by militant groups, such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), are possible in the aftermath of the general elections, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces near the Afghanistan border. Officials could order additional restrictions, including temporary public movement restrictions or further telecommunication curbs, depending on the severity of any perceived threats. Acts of intimidation and attacks on political party offices, candidates, and supporters remain possible over the short term. Associated transport and business disruptions are highly likely.
Exercise increased caution if operating in Pakistan through at least late February. Avoid political party offices, political rallies, polling stations, and government buildings, where political unrest is most likely to occur. Prepare for heightened security, including roadblocks and identification checks. Plan accordingly for localized business disruptions. If a large mob begins forming, immediately leave the area or seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor trusted media for updates on protests. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Carry valid identification and heed instructions from security personnel.
Shehbaz Sharif, the younger brother of former leader Nawaz Sharif, recently assumed the position of Prime Minister of Pakistan for the second time, following negotiations between the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to establish a coalition government after the Feb. 8 general elections. Sharif's appointment was met with protests from lawmakers aligned with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who alleged rigging in the election. Despite these challenges, Sharif secured the necessary votes in the National Assembly and officially took office on March 4. His government faces significant economic and political challenges, including managing a struggling economy, addressing militant attacks, and navigating relations with neighboring Afghanistan. Some leading experts have questioned the legitimacy of his government due to accusations of electoral tampering, which they assert complicates efforts to stabilize the country. Additionally, such experts suggest Pakistan's powerful military establishment continues to play a significant role in shaping Sharif's administration, prompting concerns about its influence over policymaking and governance.
