Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) declared a protest across the country on March 10, challenging the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) verdict, which affects the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) and benefits PML-N and PPP. During a press conference outside Adiala Jail, where founder Imran Khan is held, PTI leaders criticized the ECP’s actions as favouritism, undermining voters’ choices.
They also denounced Pakistan’s economic reliance on foreign remittances and accused the Sharif family of financial mismanagement. The demand was made for an International Monetary Fund (IMF) audit of the election process, questioning the legitimacy of Shehbaz Sharif’s government. They claimed Bushra Bibi, Khan’s wife, is in solitary confinement, highlighting Khan’s resolve to remain in prison rather than compromise.
Sher Afzal Marwat emphasized unity in upcoming protests, particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Asad Qaiser voiced plans for a nationwide movement to reclaim PTI’s mandate earlier, underscoring the aim to stay within legal bounds.
The resolution submitted by SIC calls for Imran Khan’s release and condemns legal misuses against PTI. It also lists other PTI members and journalists for release, asserting the political nature of their cases.
Ahead of a crucial vote on March 2, PTI protested against the general election’s integrity, resulting in confrontations with the police. Demonstrators supported Khan, demanding fair play and releases.
On February 3, Sher Afzal Marwat announced a Supreme Court appeal against the election rigging. Qaiser criticized Shehbaz Sharif’s electoral legitimacy and the economic management under Ishaq Dar, urging PML-N and PPP to concede government positions.
