PTI Holds Protest Gathering in Dallas, Terms Imran Khan’s Arrest a Violation of Human Rights
By: Raja Zahid Akhtar Khanzada
Dallas: A protest gathering was held in Dallas, USA, by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to condemn the arrest of party chairman Imran Khan, the alleged unlawful detention of PTI leaders and workers, and what were described as grave human rights violations in Pakistan.
The event witnessed a large turnout of overseas Pakistanis who expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of human rights in the country.
The chief guest of the event was Qasim Khan Suri, former Deputy Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly. Also in attendance were Sajjad Burki, Secretary for PTI’s Overseas International Chapters, and Nadeem Zaman, PTI’s North America Coordinator.
In his address, Qasim Suri stated that Imran Khan is being punished for standing up against the status quo. He claimed he was compelled to leave the country due to pressure being exerted on him to give false testimony against Imran Khan. He further asserted that the public mandate had been stolen and that PTI is being subjected to political victimization.
Sajjad Burki called upon overseas Pakistanis to exert pressure on the U.S. government in order to support genuine democracy and the protection of human rights in Pakistan. He informed attendees that Imran Khan’s sons have already met with more than 15 members of the U.S. Congress, who showed interest and sympathy toward their cause.
In his remarks, Nadeem Zaman stated that his team has been in constant contact with local American politicians and is raising a strong voice regarding the current political and human rights situation in Pakistan.
He expressed gratitude to all media outlets that have continued to raise the flag of truth and justice in these trying times. He especially praised the Urdu and English daily Jago Times Dallas for being an independent and impartial media platform that provides space for PTI’s perspective at a time when much of the Pakistani media is operating under visible pressure.
“When many are silent under pressure, some still dare to speak — with courage and freedom. Jago Times Dallas is among those, and we thank them for giving a voice to the voiceless,” said Nadeem Zaman.
He also announced that PTI USA will soon organize another event to further highlight the issue of human rights violations in Pakistan.
The event was moderated by Parvez Malik of CECS. Several speakers addressed the audience, and two poems were recited during the session, which were well received by attendees.
To conclude the evening, a dinner was served in honor of the guests and participants.
