RAWALPINDI: As political tensions escalate, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced plans to launch a nationwide protest movement after Ramazan, reaffirming its commitment to forming a grand opposition alliance. This comes despite PML-N President Nawaz Sharif’s warning against what he termed an “artificial political crisis.”
PTI Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar Khan made the announcement outside Adiala Jail after authorities denied a scheduled meeting with the party’s founding chairman, Imran Khan. Flanked by senior party leaders, including Hamid Raza, Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Aamir Khan Bachar, and Shandana Gulzar, Junaid criticized the government’s restrictions and assured that PTI members would mobilize in response to their leader’s call. He did not rule out a sit-in outside Adiala Jail if necessary.
Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif reaffirmed his stance that Pakistan’s progress must not be hindered by “groups unfamiliar with democratic principles.” He warned against any attempts to derail national development.
Hamid Raza accused the government of suppressing political discourse and blamed Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s family for unethical tactics in the past. He claimed that the establishment was distancing itself from the current rulers due to their governance failures.
PTI leaders also condemned what they called unconstitutional restrictions on meeting Imran Khan, alleging that the government was misleading the public by portraying opposition figures negatively. Bachar criticized authorities for keeping them waiting for hours before denying their request, calling the move an example of political victimization.
Additionally, the leaders highlighted the case of Waqas Arslan, whose wife allegedly suffered a miscarriage due to police brutality. They held the Punjab chief minister and police officials accountable, warning that growing public anger could destabilize the country.
With PTI preparing to intensify its opposition, Pakistan’s political landscape appears headed for further turmoil after Eid.
