People held protests demanding the release of the PTI founder in several cities, including Islamabad, Peshawar, and Swat. Police arrested several workers, including PTI President Aamir Masood Mughal, and transferred them to the police station.
Planned Protests After Friday Prayers
The PTI had announced protests for the release of their founder following Friday prayers. In preparation, authorities stationed a significant police presence, including female officers and prisoner vans, outside the Islamabad Press Club. The PTI rally began from G-6/1, driven by PTI pioneers Shoaib Shaheen and Aamir Masood Mughal. Many PTI nonconformists walked to the Press Club, reciting trademarks for the arrival of their chief.
Police Action and Arrests
Upon reaching the Press Club, the police started making arrests. Among those detained were Islamabad President Aamir Mughal, General Secretary Tanveer Qazi, and eight other workers. They were taken to the police station in prisoner vans. Shoaib Shaheen managed to escape from the scene. Following the police action, PTI workers dispersed from the area.
Demonstrations in Other Cities
In Peshawar, MNA Shandana Gulzar and Arbab Sher Ali attended a protest held outside the Press Club. And Provincial Minister for Higher Education Meena Khan. The protesters claimed that authorities unjustly took PTI’s seats in the general elections and filed false cases against PTI workers.
Protests in Mingora
A protest rally was also held in Mingora for the release of Imran Khan and other PTI leaders and workers. Provincial Minister for Forests and Environment Fazal Hakim Khan Yousafzai strongly supported Imran Khan, stating that they stand firmly with their leader and will follow his directives.
Summary
The series of protests across Islamabad, Peshawar, and Swat reflect the significant unrest and demand for the release of the PTI founder. The arrest of PTI leaders and workers, the allegations of election rigging, and the filing of false cases have fueled the demonstrations, highlighting the ongoing political tension in the country. The commitment of PTI members to their leader and their willingness to protest despite the risk of arrest underscores the deep divisions and contentious political environment in Pakistan.
