ISLAMABAD: In an effort to stage a major demonstration in the federal capital, PTI founder Imran Khan has instructed party members to begin preparations for a gathering this week.
Adviser to the KP Chief Minister on Information, Barrister Mohammad Saif, announced at a press conference in the KP House on Sunday that the PTI’s power show is scheduled for August 22 in Islamabad. However, Saif expressed concerns that the Islamabad district administration might once again block the event.
For several months, PTI has faced obstacles in securing permission for public meetings in Islamabad. In March, after multiple unsuccessful attempts to get a response from the district administration, PTI sought intervention from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to hold a public gathering. Despite the court’s involvement, the administration continued to deny the request. Eventually, permission was granted for a meeting on 27th Ramazan, a date the PTI rejected, citing that their workers would be occupied with religious observances.
Last month, PTI had to postpone a planned power show in Tarnol after the Islamabad administration revoked its no-objection certificate at the last minute and sealed the venue. The party then filed a contempt petition against the district administration, which led the court to direct the government to decide on the protest venue in accordance with constitutional rights.
Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon later justified the restrictions, stating that road closures could negatively impact the city’s image and infringe on travelers’ rights.
Barrister Saif criticized the district administration for repeatedly denying PTI’s right to hold peaceful assemblies, despite it being a fundamental entitlement for political parties.
