- Demonstrations held by supporters to commemorate May 9; dozens arrested
- Party spokesperson reaffirms stance on dialogue with ruling factions
- Marwat removed from core committee for disrupting Imran’s relations with Saudi ruler
ISLAMABAD: Following apparent challenges in mobilizing large crowds nationwide for the first anniversary of the May 9 violence, former president and PTI leader Arif Alvi was entrusted by party chief Imran Khan with an “important task” to engage in dialogue aimed at resolving issues with relevant stakeholders.
This development was disclosed during a press conference held by PTI leaders, including National Assembly Opposition Leader Omar Ayub, Arif Alvi, and PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan, outside Adiala jail after meeting with the former PM.
While details of Mr. Alvi’s assignment were not shared, it is known that he previously endeavored to bridge gaps between Imran Khan and the military establishment during his presidency. He emphasized the necessity of dialogue, suggesting that ruling coalition parties lacked substantive authority.
Responding to inquiries about engaging parties other than the ruling coalition, Alvi suggested that true powerholders in Pakistan were well known, implying that the coalition parties had limited influence and were linked to alleged electoral misconduct.
The PTI spokesperson added that the party would refrain from engaging with PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P due to suspicions of benefiting from electoral manipulation.
Mr. Alvi conveyed a history of mediation efforts and underscored ongoing attempts for the nation’s benefit.
Marwat’s Dismissal
PTI member Sher Afzal Marwat was dismissed from the core committee and political committee, replaced by former Azad Kashmir PM Abdul Qayyum Niazi.
This action was taken to repair relations with Saudi Arabia following Marwat’s claims regarding the Saudi crown prince’s role in the PTI founder’s removal.
Imran Khan had consistently urged Marwat to adhere to party policies, with Mr. Ayub highlighting Marwat’s disruptive statements affecting relations with Saudi Arabia.
Mr. Ayub also stated that Imran Khan directed the political committee to deliberate on disciplinary measures against Marwat, with a show-cause notice pending.
PTI Demonstrations and Detentions
PTI supporters staged demonstrations in various cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar, but were swiftly dispersed by police forces. In Islamabad, four individuals were detained, while Rawalpindi police arrested over 15, including a former MPA.
Reports indicated small gatherings in Lahore, Okara, and Faisalabad, where workers protested against the PTI crackdown.
In Sialkot, PTI leader Rehana Dar, mother of Usman Dar, was briefly detained by police after attempting to organize a rally.
In Peshawar, PTI demanded the immediate release of Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, and PTI workers. Demonstrations also occurred in Swabi, Shangla, Bajaur, Mohmand, and South Waziristan.
Karachi witnessed protests at 18 locations, leading to the detention of 23 supporters, including three women, by police during dispersal.
