Janice R. Andrews
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has temporarily halted its protests in Islamabad after a large-scale police operation overnight dispersed demonstrators demanding Khan’s release.
Police Raid Clears Protesters in Red Zone
Security forces launched a major operation in the heavily fortified Red Zone, ending days of protests that had locked down the capital since Sunday. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced that all roads leading to and from Islamabad have been reopened.
Abandoned vehicles were seen in the area, including one reportedly used by Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, to lead the protests. Witnesses reported the vehicle appeared scorched. PTI officials confirmed that Bibi and a key party ally, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, safely returned to the province.
Clashes Turn Violent
At least six people, including four paramilitary personnel and two protesters, were killed during the protests. Tensions escalated on Tuesday as PTI supporters broke through police blockades and gathered at D-Chowk, a historic protest site near key government buildings.
Thousands of PTI supporters had embarked on a “long march” from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, stronghold regions for the party, to the capital. Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested during the protests and in the days leading up to the march.
Legal Challenges Against Khan
Imran Khan, removed from office in a 2022 no-confidence vote, faces over 150 criminal charges that he insists are politically motivated. His imprisonment has fueled widespread protests from his supporters, who view the charges as an attempt to derail his political career.
Uncertain Future
The temporary suspension of protests may not indicate a permanent resolution. With PTI’s strong backing in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, the potential for renewed unrest looms if Khan’s legal troubles persist.
As Pakistan grapples with this deepening political crisis, both the government and Khan’s supporters remain entrenched in their positions, with no clear path to de-escalation in sight.
