Imran Khan’s PTI Holds Massive Rally in Swabi Amid Government Crackdown

PTI Rallies in Swabi, Marking ‘Black Day’ Over Alleged Election Rigging

On the first anniversary of Pakistan’s general elections, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, staged a massive rally in Swabi City on Saturday. The demonstration was part of PTI’s call for nationwide protests, marking February 8th as a “Black Day” in response to what the party claims was a stolen mandate in the 2023 elections.

Despite PTI’s plans for countrywide demonstrations, the Pakistan government imposed strict bans on public gatherings across key regions, including Punjab, Balochistan, and Islamabad. The restrictions, enforced under Section 144, prohibit the assembly of four or more people in designated areas.

Government Crackdown: Nationwide Bans on Gatherings

• PTI leaders initially sought to hold a major power show at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore, but the high court denied permission.
• Authorities in Islamabad, Punjab, and Balochistan imposed prohibitory orders, preventing mass demonstrations.
• PTI supporters from various cities defied restrictions and mobilized toward Swabi, where the party’s headquarters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province remains a stronghold.

PTI’s Two Key Demands

During the Swabi rally, PTI put forward two main demands:

1. The release of Imran Khan from jail.
2. Restoration of what the party calls “public mandate”, arguing that the 2023 elections were rigged against them.

Government’s Justification for Protest Bans

In response to PTI’s protests, Pakistani Minister Khawaja Asif defended the government’s restrictions, stating:

“Permission cannot be given to attack the state like May 9th or November 26th.”

His comments referred to previous PTI-led demonstrations, which the government claims led to violence and attacks on state institutions.

What’s Next for PTI and Pakistan’s Political Crisis?

With Imran Khan still behind bars and PTI facing severe restrictions, the political landscape in Pakistan remains tense. The party’s ability to mobilize supporters despite crackdowns signals continued public dissatisfaction with the government. However, with harsh legal and administrative measures against PTI, the future of opposition politics in Pakistan remains uncertain.

Will PTI’s push for justice and Khan’s release gain momentum, or will the government’s tight control over protests further weaken the opposition? The battle for Pakistan’s political future is far from over.

Stay tuned for more updates on Pakistan’s evolving political situation.