Ali Muhammad Khan, a leader from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has voiced his dissent against the party’s proposed protest at D-Chowk, which coincides with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. Khan remarked, “We should avoid protesting during the SCO summit. Yet, protesting may become our only choice if pushed to the limit.”
PTI’s political committee recently reaffirmed its intention to stage a protest at D-Chowk in Islamabad on October 15. This decision followed a crucial meeting without Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s attendance.
Post-meeting, PTI’s Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas Akram, confirmed plans for a significant protest on October 15 at D-Chowk. He noted that leaders at all levels are gearing up for the event. In preparation for this, the party has postponed its protests across Punjab, now rescheduled for later.
The committee criticized the current administration for what it sees as illegitimate governance and continued oppression. It also highlighted the alleged harsh treatment of PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, currently detained at Adiala Jail, claiming his fundamental and human rights have been severely compromised.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, addressing these developments, labelled PTI a promoter of chaos. His comments came as PTI announced a vigorous protest on the first day of the SCO Summit. During a Police Darbar at Islamabad’s Police Lines Headquarters, he lauded the police for their role in quelling a recent disruptive political gathering in the capital and maintaining order during past disturbances, including a prolonged riot at D-Chowk in 2014. This unrest had previously led to significant damage and forced the delay of a state visit by the Chinese President, Xi Jinping.
