Pakistan: Security measures ongoing for a trust vote in reinstated parliament April 9 ahead of political protests April 10 /update 6

Event

The Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaaf party - led by Prime Minister Imran Khan - has called for nationwide protests April 10, after Islamic prayers around 20:00. Details on specific venues are unavailable. The action aims to denounce opposition parties and foreign actors for allegedly engineering the collapse of the government. PTI is likely to lose a no-confidence motion scheduled for voting at the National Assembly April 9; at least one PTI leader has indicated the party will seek a postponement. Additional protests are possible, depending on the outcome of the vote. Activists affiliated with PTI, as well as opposition parties including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), have held large rallies in Islamabad in recent days; gatherings have involved up to thousands of people.

Popular protest locations in Islamabad include D-Chowk, the National Assembly, Parliament House, and major roadways, including the Srinagar Highway. PTI supporters may also rally outside the US embassy, as PTI leaders have alleged US involvement in the dismissal of the Khan-led government. Gatherings are probable in other areas - especially provincial capitals and major cities - where activists may gather at government buildings, public squares, and major intersections. The highest participation is likely in Sindh Province.

Heightened security measures are almost certain to continue in Islamabad and potential rally points in cities throughout the country. Activists have routinely defied bans on gatherings within the capital's Red Zone, including D-Chowk, Parliament House, and other government buildings. Officials typically erect checkpoints and cordons near sensitive areas and impose roadblocks to limit entry to such locations. Authorities may forcibly disperse disruptive gatherings, leading to clashes. Inter-party violence is also possible as rival groups may rally in proximity to one another.

Localized transport disruptions are probable along main routes in and around major cities, especially Islamabad. However, the most intense disruptions are likely near the rally sites in the capital.

Context

Opposition parties had introduced the no-confidence vote in early March primarily to denounce Khan's alleged mismanagement of the economy; voting was to occur April 3. Key allies of the ruling coalition withdrew support for the PTI in the lead-up to the vote. Opposition parties claimed the support of at least 200 out of 324 members in the National Assembly. President Alvi dissolved the federal government at the behest of Khan after the deputy speaker dismissed the no-confidence motion before voting commenced. The PTI has blamed a foreign conspiracy for the ouster of the government. The Supreme Court of Pakistan - ruling on a legal challenge against the speaker's decision by opposition parties and related pleas - reinstated the parliament April 7. Demonstrations are likely to continue, as elections will occur in the coming months.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Follow all security personnel instructions. Monitor local media or check with local contacts on security and transport conditions, as organizers could announce or change protest plans at short notice. Allow additional travel time in major cities during protests.