JI, PTI protests today amid section 144

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad’s local administration has sealed the Red Zone and imposed Section 144 across the federal capital restricting public gatherings in anticipation of nationwide protests scheduled for Friday by Imran Khan’s PTI and Jamaat-e-Islami sit in Islamabad.

A press release from the Islamabad district administration said Section 144 was in effect and no rally or protest would be allowed.

The Islamabad police issued a similar warning, saying that no gathering was allowed without prior permission.

Punjab police conduct raids ahead of JI sit-in

“In view of Muharram, the police are deployed at the majalis and processions. Violators of the law will be dealt with severely,” the police said.

PTI leader Asad Qaiser announced nationwide protests on Friday (July 26) for the release of political prisoners, including Imran Khan. PkMAP chief Mehmood Khan Achakzai, who leads the opposition alliance known as Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), also announced a major protest for the release of political prisoners on Friday, with support from JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

The PTI reiterated its intention today to hold nationwide protests on Friday under the TTAP’s banner.

The protest in Islamabad will be led by PTI leader, Shoaib Shaheen.

The Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) is also set to hold its Islamabad sit-in on Friday demanding a reduction in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of slab system for power tariffs, and review of agreements with independent power producers.

The party said it would hold its sit-in at D-Chowk at all costs despite the imposition of Section 144.