Thousands Rally in Islamabad for Ex-PM Imran Khan's Release

On September 8, 2024, a significant demonstration unfolded on the outskirts of Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, as thousands of supporters rallied for the release of Imran Khan, the country's former Prime Minister. Khan, who has been incarcerated for more than a year, is currently facing over 150 legal cases.

Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 1996, remains a prominent figure in Pakistani politics despite his imprisonment. The former cricket star, who led Pakistan to victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup, served as the country's 22nd Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022. His tenure was marked by economic challenges, including high inflation and a large current account deficit.

The rally, organized by the PTI, was one of the largest this year and proceeded peacefully, although brief clashes between police and some activists were reported. Zulfi Bukhari, Khan's spokesperson, criticized the police action against what he described as "peaceful" supporters.

Authorities had attempted to impede the gathering by blocking key roads with shipping containers. Despite these efforts, a substantial crowd assembled, demonstrating Khan's enduring popularity, particularly among young, urban Pakistanis.

Ali Amin, the top elected official in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, addressed the rally, stating, "God willing, we will secure the release of Imran Khan soon." He issued a two-week ultimatum to the government for Khan's release.

Khan's political journey has been tumultuous since his ousting in 2022 through a no-confidence vote in parliament, the first successful one in Pakistan's history. He has claimed that his removal was part of a foreign conspiracy, particularly involving the United States. Following violent protests in May 2023, the PTI has faced a significant crackdown.

The former Prime Minister's arrest in May 2023 sparked widespread protests across Pakistan. He has since been disqualified from holding public office until 2028 and faces multiple charges, including corruption and violating the Official Secrets Act. Khan's supporters and his party maintain that these legal challenges are politically motivated.

The ongoing political turmoil surrounding Khan has contributed to Pakistan's economic instability and strained relations with international financial institutions. The Pakistani rupee has significantly depreciated during and after Khan's tenure, exacerbating the country's economic woes.

As the rally concluded, the demand for Khan's release remained firm, highlighting the continued political divide in Pakistan and the former Prime Minister's lasting influence on the nation's political landscape.

"We stand united for justice and democracy. Imran Khan's imprisonment is a testament to the political persecution in our country. We will not rest until he is free and our voices are heard."