Pakistan: Opposition protesters set fire to government offices and vehicles in Gilgit November 23

Event

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) opposition supporters reportedly set fire to a government building and several official vehicles in the northern city of Gilgit on Monday, November 23, during protests over local election results. Demonstrators reportedly clashed with police before attacking the offices of the Gilgit-Baltistan Forestry Department, setting fire to the building and at least four forestry service vehicles. The protest was subsequently dispersed by security forces after stones and other missiles were thrown at firefighters responding to the incident.

Monday's demonstrations follow the announcement of results in the regional legislative elections which saw the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) win a majority. PTT leaders have since questioned the legitimacy of the result, claiming that the vote was rigged, and have called on their supporters to protest.

Further demonstrations are likely in Gilgit and other urban centers in the region in the near term.  

Advice

Those in Gilgit-Baltistan are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and political gatherings as a precaution, anticipate residual travel and communications disruptions, and heed all directives issued by local authorities.