30 Jul 2017 | 03:07 PM UTC
Pakistan: Political rally in Islamabad July 30
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf to hold political rally July 30 at the Parade Ground in Islamabad 18:00-23:00 (local time) to celebrate the resignation of prime minister
Event
Local authorities granted the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party permission to hold a political rally at the Parade Ground in Islamabad on Sunday, July 30, to celebrate the resignation of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The rally is scheduled to begin at 18:00 and end at 23:00 (local time). Authorities report that the nearby Murree Road and Expressway will be kept open, but localized transportation delays should be expected. An enhanced security presence should be expected in Islamabad on Sunday, as officials reported that 1600 police officers will be deployed to provide security for the rally. Clashes are possible.
Context
PTI chairman Imran Khan announced the rally on Friday, July 28, to celebrate the resignation of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Prime Minister Sharif announced his resignation on Friday following a decision by the Supreme Court to disqualify him from holding public office, after a probe into his family's wealth following the 2015 Panama Papers leak. The PTI party and other opposition parties had filed the disqualification petition with the Supreme Court. On Saturday, July 29, Sharif announced that he was putting forth his brother, Shahbaz, to take over the position of prime minister; however, Shahbaz Sharif will have to win a by-election in the next 50 days in order to take up the post. Opposition parties will also have the opportunity to put forward their own candidates for the position. In the meantime, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi - a staunch ally of the ousted Sharif - will serve as interim prime minister; he is expected to be sworn in after a parliamentary vote in the coming week.
Advice
Individuals in Islamabad and other major cities are advised to exercise extreme caution and to avoid all demonstrations and gatherings. Monitor the situation and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
As a reminder, Western governments advise their citizens against nonessential travel to Pakistan due to a nationwide high threat from terrorism, kidnapping, and sectarian violence. Travel should only be considered with strict security protocols in place.
