Pakistan: Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaaf party plans rally in Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkwa Province, from 14:00 May 8

Event

The Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaaf (PTI) party has called for a rally at Government Postgraduate College No. 1, Abbottabad, beginning 14:00 May 8. The event aims to denounce the recent collapse of the PTI government and the current administration led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Hundreds of people are likely to attend the rally led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, prompting security measures and localized disruptions.

Heightened security is certain near the protest site; typical security measures include increased security deployment and road closures. PTI supporters may clash with police and/or rival party members. Security personnel may use tear gas or water cannons to disperse disruptive crowds forcibly. Localized traffic disruptions are likely as activists will probably march on or block roads; travel delays are most likely along the National Highway 35 and Allama Iqbal, Chinar, College, and Link roads.

The rally venue is approximately 53 km (33 miles) northeast of Islamabad.

Advice

Avoid the rally as a precaution. Do not navigate roadblocks due to the risk of violence. Confirm road status and travel reservations in the affected area the afternoon of May 8. Plan for travel delays; seek alternative routes to avoid the protest site. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and seek shelter at a safe non-government building. Follow all security and traffic advisories.