PTI to hold Tarnol rally despite blockades; local leadership conspicuously absent

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced to proceeded with their rally in Tarnol, despite a notification from the district administration suspending the event.

The administration responded by blocking all major connecting roads across the city, deploying containers and other obstacles to prevent the movement of PTI workers, particularly those arriving from other provinces.

ICT admin denies PTI rally in Islamabad at the eleventh hour

Despite these measures, PTI’s local leadership in Rawalpindi has been notably absent from the ground. This absence has led to uncertainty among the party’s supporters.

In an attempt to rally the base, PTI’s MNA Shehryar Riaz released a video message urging workers to come out in full force. “There will be a jalsa in any case,” Riaz asserted, encouraging supporters to defy the roadblocks and participate in the event.

However, the lack of visible leadership in the area has caused hesitation among the party’s workers, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the rally amid such challenges. The situation remains tense as the party’s workers navigate the obstacles set up by the authorities.

INTERIOR MINISTER REVIEWS LAW AND ORDER

On the other hand, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting late last night to review the law and order situation in the federal capital and surrounding areas.

Naqvi said that no one would be allowed to enter the red zone, stating that maintaining public order is the government’s top priority. While recognising the right to protest, Naqvi stressed that demonstrations should take place in suitable locations that do not disrupt daily life.

Islamabad district administration blocks roads ahead of PTI rally

He reiterated that protecting the life and property of citizens is the government’s primary responsibility and that the law would be enforced against those who violate it.

SCHOOLS CLOSED

It is notable here that all public and private schools in Islamabad have announced a holiday today (August 22). The decision was made by the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner, citing concerns for the safety of children amid the current situation.