The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) has finalized its plan to observe the anniversary of May 9 mayhem by organizing rallies nationwide. In a circular, PTI Secretary Omar Ayub Khan informed that rallies will be held at every provincial assembly constituency level as per instructions from founding PTI chairman Imran Khan.
These rallies will be led by elected representatives, ticket holders, and party office-bearers. Pakistan and PTI flags will adorn buildings, and placards featuring former prime minister Imran Khan’s photo with “Prisoner Number 804” written on them will be prominently displayed. Additionally, prayers for PTI ‘martyrs’ will be conducted during the rallies.
On May 9 last year, Imran Khan’s arrest on Islamabad High Court’s premises sparked protests nationwide, resulting in damage to public and private property and attacks on military installations by mobs. PTI claims over 10,000 of its workers were arrested, while the government asserts the arrest of only a few thousand.
PTI not only contested military court cases in the Supreme Court but also alleged the riots were a false-flag operation orchestrated by the establishment to destabilize the party. During the crackdown, numerous PTI leaders were arrested, and some later announced their departure from the party in press conferences.
