The nation of Pakistan is on edge as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) mobilizes for protests outside the Islamabad High Court and Rawalpindi’s Adiala jail on Tuesday. The catalyst for these demonstrations is the continued inaccessibility of party founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose communication with his legal team, party associates, and family has been severed.
These planned public gatherings are proceeding despite a government-imposed ban on assemblies and tightened restrictions on visits to correctional facilities. The situation has fostered an atmosphere of intense speculation, with thousands of PTI supporters reportedly assembling near Adiala jail, and Imran Khan’s sisters attempting to secure an audience, amidst grave concerns for his health. Reports have even circulated unfounded rumors about his demise.
In response to the palpable tension and potential for unrest, the Pakistani authorities have enacted Section 144 across Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This measure, effective for three days starting December 1st, prohibits public gatherings and is intended to ensure public safety and tranquility. The local administration has cited potential threats to peace as justification for these restrictions.
Official statements from Adiala jail authorities assert that Imran Khan is within their custody, is in good health, and is receiving all necessary medical care. These statements aim to allay public fears and dismiss baseless rumors about his transfer or a decline in his health.
However, the PTI remains skeptical and is vociferously demanding transparency and the facilitation of family meetings. The party has highlighted the repeated denial of access to Imran Khan’s sisters as a key grievance. Members of parliament from the opposition have declared their intention to protest at the High Court before marching to the jail, alleging non-compliance with judicial orders. This follows a previous incident where the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa staged a sit-in after being denied a meeting with Khan multiple times.