Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has deferred its planned protest at Islamabad’s D-Chowk, originally scheduled for October 15, due to the concurrent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. The decision emerged from a meeting of PTI’s political committee, which aligned with the timing of the international summit hosted in the capital on October 15 and 16.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated that the postponement followed a discussion with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who reached out on the government’s behalf. The government has committed to conducting a medical examination for PTI’s imprisoned founder, Imran Khan, and to restoring his access to personal medical care. “Doctors are expected to visit Adiala Jail this morning as part of this assurance,” Khan added.
High-ranking officials, including the prime ministers of China, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, the vice president of Iran and the external affairs minister of India, will attend the summit.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur affirmed PTI’s readiness to protest, stating, “We are coming to Islamabad tomorrow for which we are ready as always.” He also voiced concerns over Imran Khan’s health, suggesting that the government’s actions were compelling PTI to demonstrate.
Minister for Information Atta Tarar warned that disruptions during the SCO Summit would not be tolerated, indicating stringent measures against unrest. “Those who have a mindset to conspire against the country should better stay at home as no miscreant will be allowed to disrupt the SCO Summit,” Tarar commented. He assured that extensive security measures had been implemented in Islamabad to ensure the safety of the visiting delegations.
The change in PTI’s protest plans marks a significant moment of cooperation in light of international diplomatic engagements, reflecting the broader political dynamics at play in Pakistan.
