Pakistan: Opposition protesters to demonstrate in Gilgit November 24 /update 1

Event

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) opposition supporters are scheduled to demonstrate across the Gilgit-Baltistan territory on Tuesday, November 24, following unrest over local election results on Monday, November 23. Protests will reportedly be held throughout the territory on Tuesday between 12:00 to 16:00 (local time). On Monday, protesters 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 in the northern city of Gilgit. The protest was subsequently dispersed by security forces after stones and other missiles were thrown at firefighters responding to the incident.

Monday's demonstrations followed 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.