16 Jul 2017 | 05:44 PM UTC
Pakistan: Gatherings banned in Islamabad ahead of July 17 hearing
Hearing for investigation into Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s alleged financial dealings July 17; authorities ban gatherings of five or more people in Islamabad for two months
Event
On Monday, July 17, a hearing for the investigation into Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s alleged financial dealings will take place at the Supreme Court in the capital Islamabad. On July 12, authorities banned gatherings of five or more people in Islamabad for the next two months. Protests leading up to or following the hearing are possible.
Context
The Supreme Court has been investigating corruption allegations levied against Prime Minister Sharif since October 2016. Imran Khan, an opposition leader, petitioned the court to investigate Sharif after financial documents were leaked in April 2016 that listed Sharif’s two sons and a daughter as holders of offshore accounts. Sharif is accused of using those accounts for tax evasion and money laundering.
Advice
Individuals in Islamabad are advised to exercise extreme caution and to avoid all demonstrations and gatherings. Keep abreast of the situation and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
As a reminder, Western governments advise their citizens against nonessential travels to Pakistan due a nationwide high threat from terrorism, kidnapping, and sectarian violence. Travel should only be considered with strict security protocols in place.
