Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party plans nationwide protests Sept. 13

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has called for nationwide protests Sept. 13 to denounce the arrests of its leaders for allegedly violating recently passed laws governing public gatherings. The detentions occurred in the aftermath of a PTI rally in Islamabad Sept. 8, and from within the parliamentary complex in Islamabad Sept. 10. Although organizers did not immediately announce the specific locations or event start time, potential gathering sites include press clubs, PTI party offices, monuments, court buildings, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Rallies usually occur after congregational prayers in the afternoon. While participation will vary by locale, a few hundred people may attend each event through late evening, especially in provincial capitals. Protest plans are subject to change at short notice due to legal orders.

Authorities will likely monitor the gatherings and could use force to disperse overly unruly crowds. Police typically ban gatherings near sensitive buildings, mainly in Islamabad; further preventive arrests of PTI leaders cannot be ruled out. Clashes between police and activists are possible. Activists could march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated local business disruptions may occur.