The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, announced on Saturday the postponement of a public rally in Islamabad after the district administration revoked its permission.
The PTI had planned to hold a gathering on the outskirts of the capital to demand Khan’s release, with initial approval granted by the district administration following directives from the Islamabad High Court.
However, just hours into the preparations on Friday, the Islamabad administration revoked the permission, citing security concerns, the commencement of Muharram, and reports from law enforcement agencies.
“PTI jalsa (rally) which was to be held today in Islamabad is postponed until a further date is announced,” the party stated.
The PTI has petitioned the Islamabad High Court to initiate contempt proceedings against the district administration and police for allegedly violating court orders that permitted the rally. The party claims that the authorities have colluded to obstruct the event from the outset.
In their petition, PTI argued that the reasons given for the cancellation were “malafide,” politically motivated, and a clear contempt of court. However, the petition could not be immediately heard due to the unavailability of the IHC chief justice.
Meanwhile, PTI held a political committee meeting to discuss the issue and devise a strategy. At a press conference, the party announced the postponement of the rally.
“We have unanimously decided, as we have moved the court and received the NOC from the court, that today’s public rally scheduled for 6 pm under Tahaffuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan is postponed,” PTI Chairman Gohar Khan stated.
Since Khan’s arrest on graft charges in August last year, PTI has struggled to hold rallies across the country. The party claims it faces a crackdown and mass arrests of its members for supporting Khan, allegations that Pakistani authorities deny.
