As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) gears up for its planned protest in Islamabad on November 24, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has informed PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan that the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) directives prohibit any protests, sit-ins, or public gatherings in the capital.
In a phone conversation on Saturday, Naqvi discussed the political developments following PTI’s announcement of its “do-or-die” protest. He referenced the IHC’s recent order, which places legal restrictions on such activities under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024. This law empowers the district magistrate to regulate or ban public assemblies, with penalties including up to three years in prison or fines for violators.
Naqvi also pointed out the arrival of a high-level Belarusian delegation, led by the president, scheduled to visit Islamabad from November 24 to 27. With the visit, ensuring security and maintaining public order have become key concerns for the government.
In response, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan requested additional time to consult with party leaders before making a final decision on whether to proceed with the protest.
The PTI political committee, which met last night, appeared to favor postponing the protest. Most members expressed support for engaging in dialogue with the government instead of pushing forward with direct action. However, the committee intends to consult with jailed PTI founder Imran Khan, who had initially called for the protests over issues like alleged electoral fraud, the detention of PTI workers, and the controversial 26th Amendment.
Meanwhile, the federal government has taken steps to secure Islamabad, closing roads and partially blocking major access points. Additionally, authorities are considering suspending mobile services nationwide to prevent disruptions. Naqvi warned that any attempts to violate the IHC’s ruling would be met with strict enforcement, adding that protesters or lawbreakers would not be allowed to remain in Islamabad.
