Protest to Continue Until Imran Khan Decides Otherwise
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur reaffirmed that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) sit-in is ongoing, asserting that only the party chairman, Imran Khan, has the authority to call it off. Speaking at a press conference in Mansehra, he accused the government of using oppressive tactics against PTI members.
“Our leader, Imran Khan, is in jail, and even his wife, Bushra Bibi, was briefly imprisoned,” he stated, reiterating PTI’s peaceful approach and commitment to constitutional supremacy.
Violent Crackdown During Protest
The PTI protest, initially described as a “do-or-die” move, was disrupted by law enforcement agencies in a midnight crackdown. Gandapur criticized the government’s actions, claiming that the violence led to the martyrdom of PTI workers and injuries to hundreds.
While the government reported casualties among security forces, Gandapur alleged that the PTI workers were fired upon despite maintaining peace.
Disappointment Among PTI Ranks
Senior PTI leader Shaukat Yousafzai expressed dissatisfaction with the party leadership, blaming them for a lack of clear direction during the protest. He voiced his disappointment over the abrupt suspension of the sit-in, which lasted for three days.
Personal Attacks on Gandapur
Gandapur revealed that he faced targeted attacks during the protests, including an attempted abduction and an assassination attempt. He pledged to file an FIR to ensure accountability for the violence against PTI workers.
Compensation Announced for Victims
The chief minister announced financial compensation of Rs10 million for the families of PTI workers who lost their lives during the protests. He stated, “This province knows how to claim its mandate and rights. The nation cannot be enslaved through bullets and violence.”
