PTI rally permit cancelled, party says event will go ahead

By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad authorities on Wednesday evoked permission for a rally by former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party, citing security concerns and resource constraints, but the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) vowed to proceed with the Aug. 22 event.

The rally, meant to pressure for Khan’s release from jail, was denied permission due to the current law and order situation in Islamabad, according to a notification from the chief commissioner’s office.

“Considering the opinions of the law enforcement agencies, concerned departments, and after reviewing the situation, I have reached at the conclusion that the current law and order situation in Islamabad does not permit for holding of such a gathering/jalsa [rally] in Islamabad on 22-08-2024 which necessitates the cancelation of the NOC [permission] dated 31-07-2024 granted by the Deputy Commissioner, Islamabad.” the notification said.

The notification cited concerns over the capital city police’s ability to manage security needs due to multiple events occurring simultaneously in Islamabad.

“It is expected that the people coming for the [PTI] rally have a plan for a prolonged stay and also bringing items such as tear gas, masks, bedding or sleeping bags, and food provisions, indicates their determination to turn the jalsa into a sit-in.”

The PTI has been struggling to hold rallies across the country since August last year when Khan was arrested on multiple charges and subsequently convicted in four cases, all of which have been quashed by higher courts.

PTI leaders, including Islamabad president Amir Mughal, have declared that the rally will proceed as scheduled, with Mughal assuring a peaceful and unarmed gathering.

However, he warned of a nationwide response if violence or firing occurs.

“The administration has cancelled the NOC but we have not cancelled the rally,” Mughal said. “We’ll carry out the rally as scheduled. It’s our legal right to protest for Imran Khan’s freedom.”