PTI protest—We will reach D-chowk no matter what: Gandapur

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is gearing up for a crucial protest at the heart of the country’s capital on Friday, following a call from its jailed founder Imran Khan.

PTI member and the Chief Minister (CM) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Ali Amin Gandapur declared that the party will reach D-Chowk “no matter what”. He also stated that the party’s preparations were “complete”, and the protest will be peaceful.

Read more: Authorities impose ban on pillion riding in Islamabad

In a video message, Gandapur said that he and thousands of supporters will reach D-Chowk regardless of the hurdles placed in their path. He warned that if authorities attempted to disrupt the protest, they would be held liable for any ensuing situation.

“We are a peaceful protesters and we will reach D-Chowk as this is the call given by our leader, Imran Khan”, he said.

Despite the PTI’s commitment to a non-violent protest, security agencies in Islamabad implemented strict measures. Police set up roadblocks and are conducting raids to arrest known and unknown PTI activists and leaders.

Almost all major entry points leading to Islamabad were closed off, with containers barricading all choke points. Rawat chowk, Khanna pull and Faizabad interchange among other are closed off.

The Islamabad authorities also imposed section 144 on pillion riding (double sawari) on motorcycles.

Gandapur also criticised the federal and Punjab governments for their use of force against PTI supporters. He stated that the party would exercise its constitutional rights to protest.

The KP CM denounced what he calls the unlawful seizure of private vehicles and warned the vehicle owners to avoid bringing their cars onto the motorway.

Meanwhile, in a press conference, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar expressed his sentiments on the current government. He remarked that the current regime lacked the mandate to approve a constitutional package being proposed in the Parliament.

The PTI chairman said that the protest aimed to show solidarity with the judiciary and oppose measures perceived as attempts to undermine judicial independence.

During a meeting with party leaders from KP, Gandapur outlined strategies to ensure maximum participation. He urged the leaders to maintain discipline among the participants and to adhere to agreed-upon plans.

Read more: Private schools in Islamabad shut tomorrow amid PTI protest at D-Chowk

As the sun rises on Friday, tensions remain high, the air thick with apprehension even on the desolate, barricaded streets of Islamabad.