Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to hold rally at Tarnol Chowk, Islamabad, Sept. 8

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party will hold a rally at the Tarnal Chowk intersection along Peshawar Road in Islamabad, Sept. 8. The event - organized to mobilize support for imprisoned PTI leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan - was initially scheduled to occur Aug. 22. The plan was modified after authorities withdrew permission for the rally and imposed roadblocks along access routes to Islamabad. Further changes to the protest plan cannot be ruled out.

Heightened security will continue in and around Islamabad through Sept. 8 as a precaution. Officials are enforcing Section 144 orders across the city until further notice; the rules prohibit unauthorized public gatherings. The closure of schools and public bus services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are likely during the demonstration. Authorities also typically cordon off Islamabad's Red Zone, which houses key government buildings and diplomatic enclaves, during large protests. Tight security is probable at popular alternative protest sites, including public squares like the Parade Ground, monuments, and parks such as the Fatima Jinnah/F-9 Park. Clashes between police and opposition activists are possible, mainly if activists attempt to gather, defying security restrictions. Associated local business disruptions are possible.