21 Nov 2024 | 12:07 PM UTC
Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party likely to continue nationwide protests through at least late November /update 5
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party likely to protest in Pakistan through at least late November. Major rally announced in Islamabad on Nov. 24.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party will likely stage nationwide protests through at least late November. The purpose of the action is to demand that various grievances be addressed, including the release of the imprisoned PTI leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Party members and supporters are planning a long march to an unspecified location in Islamabad, accompanied by a sit-in protest, on Nov. 24.
Ahead of the planned demonstrations on Nov. 24, authorities plan to partially suspend internet and mobile services around Islamabad, as well as Punjab, and Kyper Pakhtunkhwa Provinces as early as Nov. 22. Roads and thoroughfares within Rawalpindi have been blocked off with shipping containers. Officials are deploying over 9,000 Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Constabulary (FC) in Islamabad and over 10,000 in Punjab Province. Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code which empowers the government to temporarily prohibit unauthorized public gatherings, has been imposed in Islamabad.
Additional demonstrations of varying types, including marches and transport blockages, are likely over the coming days. Potential gathering sites include press clubs, monuments, sports grounds, government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Well-attended gatherings have previously drawn tens of thousands of participants. Due to legal orders or security measures, protest plans may change on short notice.
The invocation of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code will likely occur in additional rallies. Security forces will likely monitor any demonstrations that occur and may use batons and tear gas to disperse some gatherings. Security checks, traffic restrictions, and resulting transport delays will likely affect certain areas in major cities, and preventive arrests of PTI leaders are possible.
Clashes between police and activists, as well as incidents of arson and vandalism, remain possible, especially if authorities attempt to disperse crowds forcibly. In the event of significant violence, temporary mobile internet outages and restrictions on social media and messaging applications may be imposed. Localized business disruptions could occur in areas affected by protests and increased security.
Avoid all demonstrations due to the threat of violence. Depart the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan for ground transport delays and business disruptions in cities. Monitor trusted local media as organizers may announce or change protest plans on short notice. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
