Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former prime minister, has declared a series of protests to support the judiciary, starting in Mianwali, Faisalabad, and Bahawalpur on October 2.
From Adiala Jail, Khan communicated to his supporters on Monday, planning further demonstrations at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore on October 5 and at D-Chowk in Islamabad on October 4. He raised concerns about a so-called “London Plan” aimed at undermining PTI, asserting that his arrest was a part of this agenda. “They aim to break my spirit in jail, but I remain unshaken and urge the public to stand firm,” he stated.
Khan assured that the protests would be non-violent, noting, “Our history of peaceful protests contrasts sharply with the system’s failure to protect us.” He also touched on the treatment of PTI’s female members, condemning the incarceration of women, including an 80-year-old.
Supporting Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, who led a march to Islamabad, Khan praised his efforts to “awaken the province’s people” and affirmed the inevitability of a revolution. “Gandapur’s message resonates well with the public,” he added.
Khan reaffirmed PTI’s dedication to defending the judiciary and continuing their fight for freedom. He mentioned his wife, Bushra Bibi, noting her imprisonment as part of the efforts to weaken his resolve.
In related developments, the federal government plans to bring sedition charges against PTI leaders following their speeches at a September 8 rally in Sangjani, Islamabad. Sources say the law ministry intends to apply Section 196 of the Criminal Procedure Code, permitting sedition charges without arrest warrants. The federal prosecutor general and the law ministry have endorsed the charges, pending cabinet approval before formal accusations are made against PTI’s leadership.
