27 Nov 2024 | 11:50 AM UTC
Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party likely to continue nationwide protests through late November /update 9
Opposition protests, tight security likely to continue across Pakistan through late November. Protests in Islamabad dispersed early Nov. 27.
Unrest and related security measures are affecting multiple areas of Pakistan as of Nov. 27 due to protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The worst affected area is Islamabad, where tens of thousands of activists had gathered to march towards D-Chowk since Nov. 24 as part of nationwide rallies to demand the release of jailed PTI leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Police began dispersing the crowds near D-Chowk in the early hours of Nov. 27, causing PTI leaders and protesters to flee. The clashes in and around Islamabad and other parts of Punjab Province have killed at least one police officer and three PTI members, injured over 119 others, and resulted in the burning of at least 22 police vehicles. Security forces have reportedly detained more than 4,000 of Khan's supporters and used tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. Although the PTI has called for an end to the march to Islamabad for now, additional protests will likely occur in the coming days.
Authorities indicated that businesses are reopening in Islamabad as of Nov. 27, and educational institutions will reopen Nov. 28. Officials have restored internet and mobile services around Islamabad as well as Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Officials have begun removing all shipping containers and road checkpoints that blocked all entry and exit routes of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Flight operations to and from Islamabad International Airport (ISB) have returned to normal; however, lingering flight delays and cancellations are possible as airlines work to clear flight backlogs. The deployment of over 9,000 Pakistan Rangers and Frontier Constabulary (FC) personnel in Islamabad and more than 10,000 rangers in Punjab Province remains in effect. Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which empowers the government to temporarily prohibit unauthorized public gatherings, is in effect in Punjab Province until at least Nov. 28; Section 144 orders are also in effect in Islamabad. Officials could extend the security measures over the coming days if protests restart. Temporary and localized curfews are possible, especially in Islamabad.
Additional demonstrations of varying types will likely occur in cities such as Rawalpindi and Lahore 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.
Security forces will monitor demonstrations and forcibly disperse gatherings. Security checks, traffic restrictions, and resulting transport delays will probably affect major cities, and preventive arrests of PTI leaders are possible. Clashes between police and activists, as well as incidents of arson and vandalism, may occur over the coming days, especially if authorities attempt to disperse crowds forcibly. Authorities will likely report increasing casualty numbers over the short term. In the event of significant violence, officials may impose further telecommunications controls, including additional mobile internet outages and restrictions on social media and messaging applications. Localized business disruptions could occur in areas affected by protests and increased security.
Avoid all demonstrations and navigating roadblocks 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. Remain indoors and keep windows and doors closed if operating in areas with large protests, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible if exposed to tear gas or smoke; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Plan for ground transport delays and business disruptions in cities. Allow additional travel time, especially to and from ISB. Carry proper identification documents to present at security checks. Maintain contact with diplomatic consulates. Monitor trusted local media as organizers may announce or change protest plans on short notice. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
