PTI plans nationwide protests as Imran Khan marks jail term

The opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf is set to hold protests across Pakistan today as it marks three years since the imprisonment of its founder, Imran Khan, and presses for his release. According to party leaders cited by Dawn, the main gathering will take place in Peshawar, while local and regional party groups in other provinces have been asked to organise demonstrations at their own convenience.

The PTI says the day will be used to show political unity and renew its call for what it describes as democratic rights, constitutional rule and the public’s right to choose its representatives. Party Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said the Peshawar event would serve as the centrepiece of the campaign and maintained that the protests would remain peaceful.

He said there was no place for violence in the party’s approach, even as PTI workers in some areas, especially Punjab, have faced raids and crackdowns. He also appealed to supporters who backed the party in the February 8 general election to come out and express solidarity with Imran Khan.

In Rawalpindi, however, the planned rally faced a setback after the local administration denied permission for an event at Liaquat Bagh, according to the feed summary. That development underscores the friction surrounding the party’s mobilisation effort as it tries to turn the anniversary into a national show of strength.

Separately, Imran Khan’s sisters and PTI lawyers reached Adiala jail on Tuesday but were not allowed to meet him. Aleema Khan said the campaign for his release had already begun and expressed hope that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister would announce the next phase on August 5.

PTI focal person Advocate Awais Younas Chaudhry also said the party lawyers had reached the jail but were not permitted access, adding another layer of tension to a day already defined by political pressure and public mobilisation.

The party’s efforts today will test its ability to rally supporters nationwide while navigating restrictions, administrative refusals and heightened scrutiny. For PTI, the Peshawar protest is intended not only as a symbolic gathering, but also as a political statement that Imran Khan remains central to its agenda.

FAQ

Why is PTI protesting today?

PTI is marking three years since Imran Khan’s imprisonment and is demanding his release.

Where is the main PTI event taking place?

The party says the main gathering will be held in Peshawar.

Did the party say the protests would be violent?

No. PTI leaders told Dawn the protests would be peaceful and said the party has no space for violence.