Pakistan: Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf party reschedules March 26 rally in Lahore to 21:00 March 25 /update 2

Event

The Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) party has rescheduled a planned March 26 rally at the Minar-e-Pakistan monument in Lahore to 21:00 March 25. The PTI gathering, which has now been rescheduled multiple times, was initially slated to occur on March 22. The event is a part of the PTI's campaign to mobilize political support for its party leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan ahead of the Punjab State assembly elections. Organizers may change the date or venue location with little-to-no notice due to law-enforcement restrictions or organizational-related issues.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence near the gathering site. Associated localized transport disruptions are likely to occur. Officials may impose road closures and other security measures in the vicinity of Khan's residence in Zaman Park; similar actions were taken during previous local rallies. Clashes between police and demonstrators cannot be ruled out. Security personnel may conduct mass arrests or implement additional restrictions, such as limitations on mobile internet services or public movement, if significant violence occurs.

Advice

Avoid the rally due to possible violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near the gathering site. Heed all official transport and security advisories.