Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party plans multiple rallies nationwide from Sept. 26

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has called for nationwide protests from Sept. 26. The action is to mobilize support for imprisoned leader Imran Khan and denounce proposed constitutional amendments that will allegedly undermine the independence of the judiciary. Additional demonstrations are likely through at least early October, when parliamentary discussion on the controversial amendments will occur. Details of known events include:

• Sept. 26: Nationwide protests over judiciary independence

• Sept. 27: Nationwide rallies demanding the release of Imran Khan

• Sept. 28: A demonstration will occur from 16:00 at Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh; several thousand people are likely to attend and may gather at alternative sites like Bhatta Chowk if permission is denied.

• Oct. 5: Rally involving up to a few thousand attendees planned near Lahore's Minar-e-Pakistan monument to mark Imran Khan's birthday

Although specific locations and start times for some events are unclear, potential gathering sites include press clubs, monuments, sports grounds, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares at district headquarters. Rallies usually occur after congregational prayers in the afternoon. A few hundred people typically attend smaller gatherings. Protest plans are subject to change at short notice due to legal orders or security measures.

Authorities will likely monitor the gatherings and could use force to disperse overly unruly crowds. Police are implementing traffic restrictions and security checks in Islamabad as a precaution. Similar measures are likely in Rawalpindi and other major cities where rallies are announced; preventive arrests of PTI leaders are possible. Clashes between police and activists are possible. Temporary mobile internet curbs may occur in the event of significant violence.

Activists will likely hold marches or vehicle processions along roadways, including interprovincial highways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Authorities typically impose security checks and police roadblocks along access routes to cities to control protest attendance. Localized business disruptions may occur; officials have previously closed schools and curtailed public transport services during large rallies in urban centers.