Pakistan's Opposition Marks Khan's Arrest Anniversary with Mass Rally
Thousands gather in northwest Pakistan to commemorate one year since Imran Khan's arrest. PTI party demands release of former PM, plans future protests amid ongoing legal battles.
In a significant display of political support, thousands of Imran Khan backers assembled in Pakistan's northwest region to mark the first anniversary of the former prime minister's arrest. The demonstration, organized by Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, took place in Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the PTI holds power.
Over 10,000 participants waved party flags and chanted slogans, showcasing one of the largest gatherings since Khan's removal from office in 2022. The event is part of PTI's ongoing campaign to pressure Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government for Khan's release.
Ali Amin Gundapur, the provincial chief minister, urged supporters to prepare for a potential march on Islamabad in the coming weeks. PTI leaders hinted at Khan's possible release without providing specifics, maintaining hope among the crowd.
Imran Khan, who founded PTI in 1996 and led Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup before entering politics, was arrested on August 5, 2023. He received a three-year sentence in a graft case, but recent months have seen his convictions either suspended or overturned. Despite this, Khan remains in custody due to pending cases, which PTI claims are politically motivated.
The government denies these accusations, asserting that Khan has received fair treatment in legal proceedings. This political turmoil reflects Pakistan's history of instability, where no prime minister has completed a full five-year term.
"We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Imran Khan. The cases against him are baseless and politically motivated."
Pakistan's political landscape continues to be shaped by tensions between civilian governments and the military, with the country experiencing several coups since its 1947 independence. As a nuclear-armed nation, Pakistan's internal stability holds significant geopolitical importance in South Asia.
The ongoing legal battles and protests surrounding Imran Khan highlight the complex challenges facing Pakistan's democracy, economy, and security. As the PTI plans future demonstrations, the country's political future remains uncertain, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.
