Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party likely to stage protests across country through at least late October /update 1

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party will likely stage protests across the country through at least late October. The purpose of the rallies is to mobilize support for imprisoned leader Imran Khan and denounce proposed constitutional amendments that will allegedly undermine the independence of the judiciary. As of early Oct. 17, protest organizers have announced the following demonstration details:

• Oct. 17: Protesters will gather in the vicinity of D-Chowk in Islamabad.

• Oct. 18: Activists will hold protests at district headquarters across the country following congregational prayers.

Well-attended gatherings have previously drawn tens of thousands of participants, and demonstrations that occur through late October may involve a similar number of protesters. Due to legal orders or security measures, protest plans may change on short notice. Potential gathering sites for future demonstrations include press clubs, monuments, sports grounds, government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares.

Authorities usually enforce Section 144 orders prohibiting unauthorized public gatherings and deploy police, paramilitary, and military personnel to prevent rallies. Security forces will likely monitor all demonstrations that materialize and may use batons and tear gas to disperse some gatherings. Security checks, traffic restrictions, and consequent transport delays will probably affect some areas in major cities, and preventive arrests of PTI leaders are likely. Clashes between police and activists, as well as incidents of arson and vandalism, remain possible, especially if authorities attempt to forcibly disperse crowds. Temporary mobile internet curbs and restrictions on social media and messaging applications may occur in the event of significant violence. Localized business disruptions may affect areas subject to protest activity and increased security.