Supporters of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan are protesting in over 60 locations worldwide including Canada and US, demanding his release.
“Overseas Pakistanis living in Canada have recorded protests in four cities on the call of their leader Imran Khan and demanded the immediate release of Imran Khan and other political prisoners!” Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf said in a post on X sharing a video of the protest.
Pakistani overseas students in Chicago also organized a protest and car rally to express their solidarity with former Khan.
“Pakistani overseas students in Chicago, are participating in a protest and car rally to show their solidarity with Imran Khan. People from all generations, both in Pakistan and abroad, are expressing their support for Imran Khan. Time for his release!” PTI said.
Pak govt prepared to foil ‘well-thought out conspiracy’
As PTI supporters from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and other regions marched towards Islamabad, the government responded with a stern warning, declaring that anyone attempting to breach the city’s security arrangements and blockades would face consequences.
Government officials have labeled the protests as a “well-thought-out conspiracy,” pointing out that its timing coincides with the arrival of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who is scheduled to visit Islamabad on Monday, Dawn reported.
Over 1,200 detained, mobile internet services suspended
Nearly 1,257 PTI workers have been detained, with more than 200 arrested while attempting to march towards Islamabad in response to the party’s call for action, ARY news reported.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced that mobile internet services would be halted starting November 22, with firewalls in place to slow down internet speeds and restrict access to social media apps.
Sources have indicated that authorities may extend the shutdown to other areas or take further measures to disrupt communication, depending on the unfolding situation.
PTI announced plans for a nationwide protest on Sunday, following a call from its founder, Imran Khan. Despite the government’s attempts to prevent the demonstration, the party has been actively mobilizing and preparing for the protest across the country.