Pakistan: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party calls for shutdown strike in Quetta, Balochistan Province, Jan. 6

Authorities announced mobile service restrictions in Quetta, Balochistan Province, from Jan. 6 due to an indefinite citywide shutdown strike planned by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party. The action is to denounce alleged irregularities in a recently concluded local election. Participation is likely to be moderate, with minimal disruptions to multinational corporations. Activists are likely to hold related protests during the strike, with up to several hundred people attending rallies. Protest plans may change at short notice if authorities deny or cancel permission for events.

Closures of local businesses such as markets are likely during the strike. Strike supporters may also forcibly enforce closures, mainly in suburban areas. Public entities and essential and emergency services are unlikely to be affected.

While organizers have not announced details of strike-related gatherings, popular protest sites include government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Security personnel will almost certainly monitor any large protests and may disperse overly disruptive crowds. Localized transport disruptions and traffic curbs are likely near demonstrations; police may also impose roadblocks in downtown areas to prevent rallies in Islamabad and other major cities.

Local officials have previously issued Section 144 orders in the lead-up to large rallies; the rules prohibit unauthorized public gatherings of more than four people and the carriage of arms in public, among others. Clashes between police and activists are possible. Enhanced security measures such as expanded phone and internet restrictions are probable if significant violence breaks out.