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Protests Erupt in Pakistan as PTI Opposes Judges’ Appointment, New Law

February 11, 2025, 2:10 pm

Hundreds of lawyers rallied in Islamabad on Monday to protest the decision of Judicial Commission of Pakistan to elevate six high court judges to the Supreme Court. Protests flared as lawyers demanded an adjournment of the JCP meeting, which went ahead despite the opinion of four Supreme Court judges and legal groups.

Protests erupted at several points in the capital, with the lawyers’ committee holding a protest near D-Chowk. The protests became violent when security forces clashed with the protesters while trying to enter the key areas. The police retaliated by blocking several major roads that led to the Red Zone, causing traffic congestion all over the city. Metro bus services were suspended at various points, causing more dislocation to the daily commuters.

Protesters also staged a significant number of demonstrations at Serena Chowk, protesting the postponement of the JCP meeting. Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party strongly opposed the appointments and joined the protests.

Controversial Appointments and Legal Challenges

The Judicial Commission is set to fill eight vacant Supreme Court seats under the controversial 26th Constitutional Amendment, which includes four members from Parliament. The newly appointed judges are Justice Muhammad Hashim Khan Kakar, Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui, Justice Salahuddin Panhwar, Justice Shakeel Ahmad, Justice Aamer Farooq, and Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim. However, the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court was not included in the list, raising further concerns among the legal community.

PTI Senator Hamid Khan termed these appointments “unconstitutional” and “illegitimate.” Talking to Geo News, he said that his party would never accept the appointments. He made this statement after earlier protests, including a strike by lawyers in Islamabad on February 3 against the transfer of three high court judges to the Islamabad High Court (IHC), whereas the Karachi Bar Association supported the strike and stayed out of court.

Day-to-Day Impact of Islamabad Demonstrations

The protest demonstrations profoundly disrupted the city’s transportation system of Islamabad. Blocking roads to the Red Zone and suspending the metro bus resulted in severe traffic jam across the city, which further escalated tensions around the protest rallies.

Legal fraternity opposition to appointments and ongoing demonstrations indicate a rise in the increasing dissatisfaction within Pakistan’s legal community towards decisions taken by the JCP recently.

Imran Khan’s PTI Given Final Call: Attend Talks or Face Consequences

January 28, 2025, 11:59 am

The Pakistani government has issued a clear warning to Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI). Officials stated they would halt negotiations if PTI refuses to attend the meeting scheduled for Tuesday. These talks began on December 23 to ease political unrest caused by PTI’s protests over alleged persecution and crackdowns after Imran Khan’s 2023 arrest.

PTI’s Conditions for Participation

PTI has linked its attendance to the government meeting its demands. The party insists on forming judicial commissions to investigate the May 9, 2023, protests and the crackdown on November 26, 2024. However, government spokesperson Irfan Siddiqui criticized PTI’s approach. He called their stance unreasonable, pointing out that while PTI took six weeks to present demands, they now refuse to wait seven days for a response. Siddiqui assured that the government would address PTI’s demands during the next talks on January 28.

May 9 Incident at the Center of Dispute

The dispute revolves around PTI’s demand for an inquiry into the May 9 protests, during which PTI supporters attacked military facilities, including the army headquarters. Reports indicate the government has decided against forming a commission to investigate the incident. PTI has also accused the military and political parties of working against them. These tensions date back to 2022 when Imran Khan alleged a conspiracy involving the opposition, the military, and the US to oust him from power.

Call for Dialogue Over Protests

Siddiqui urged PTI to prioritize dialogue over street protests. He emphasized that attending the meeting would allow PTI to discuss its reservations and work toward achieving its demands. He stressed that negotiation, not agitation, is the way forward.

Deepening Political Crisis

The ongoing tension has further destabilized Pakistan’s political and economic landscape. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government faces mounting pressure to resolve the crisis. Meanwhile, PTI’s protests and claims of politically motivated cases against Imran Khan and other leaders continue to fuel unrest.

PTI Demands ‘Unrestricted and Unmonitored’ Access to Imran Khan Before Government Talks

January 8, 2025, 12:53 pm

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has called for the Shehbaz Sharif government to allow unrestricted and unfettered access to the imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan. PTI claims that any meetings with the government about easing political tensions must be preceded by such meetings with Khan. According to *The Dawn*, PTI’s demand is one of the main conditions for moving forward with negotiations.

The government and PTI have so far conducted two rounds of negotiations, with a third round likely this week. The objective of these talks is to end the political rifts and bring stability to the situation in the country. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan maintained that the third round would not occur unless Imran Khan was granted a meeting with PTI leaders without being under surveillance.

He explained at a press conference in Islamabad that the party was not negotiating for a deal but for the people’s interests. He insisted that the draft of the negotiation should be finalized without delay. Oppn leader in National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan reiterated this claim as he added that the government demanded only an open, intelligence-agencies-free meeting between him and Imran Khan at the time of their last visit. The opposition leader lashed at Adiala Jail for conditions considered unfit to carry out any free-minded dialogue.

Khan further added, “The commitment of the government to negotiations will be clear if they allow us to meet Imran in an unrestricted setting, as we need to get our instructions from him.”

As a reaction to the disturbance in the country, Imran Khan formed a five-member committee to start dialogue with any party, marking a change in the PTI’s parliamentary strategy. In return, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also constituted a committee consisting of members from the ruling coalition.

The two sides met on December 23 and again on January 2. So far, however, nothing much has come out of the talks because PTI continues to demand meetings with Khan so often that all its demands be finalised. A third round of talks is expected later this week.

The relation of PTI with the government and the establishment has been getting worse since Imran Khan was imprisoned last year on various charges, which often turns violent as a result of state repression during protests.

Pakistan Defence Minister Questions Practicality Of Talks With PTI

December 14, 2024, 11:15 pm

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has questioned the practicality of initiating talks with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) amidst the party’s protests demanding the release of its founder, Imran Khan, as reported by Geo News. Asif pointed out that Khan himself has expressed a lack of trust in his own party leaders.

In a discussion on Geo News’ program “Naya Pakistan,” Asif asked, “Where will such negotiations lead?” and noted that the sudden push for talks had left people surprised.

Additionally, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Senator Irfan Siddiqui criticized PTI for its contradictory stance—calling for negotiations while advocating for civil disobedience. “You cannot shake hands with one hand while holding a sword in the other,” Siddiqui remarked, stating that PTI cannot seek concessions while planning civil disobedience.

Earlier, PTI backtracked from its previous stance on negotiations, with several party leaders clarifying that formal talks had not yet started. They stated that the process would only begin once party founder Imran Khan gave his approval.

Meanwhile, PML-N senior leader Rana Sanaullah remarked that the government had not received any official communication from PTI regarding the start of talks, despite PTI’s claims of establishing a negotiations committee.

Also Read: China Plans $1 Billion Investment In Pakistan’s Healthcare Sector

On December 11, the ruling PML-N and PTI had agreed to open formal communication channels, aiming to replace confrontation with constructive dialogue to address longstanding issues and enhance political stability. This decision followed a meeting between PTI leaders Asad Qaiser and Salman Akram Raja and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq to offer condolences for his sister’s death.

Imran Khan Secures Bail in Toshakhana Case but Remains Behind Bars

November 20, 2024, 10:41 pm

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan secured bail in the high-profile Toshakhana case from the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday. However, his release from jail remains uncertain due to multiple pending cases against him.

Conditions for Bail

The court, presided over by Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, granted bail contingent on submitting two bonds worth Rs1 million each. The judge also directed Khan to appear before the trial court after release, warning that non-cooperation could result in bail revocation.

Charges in the Toshakhana Case

پوری پاکستانی قوم کو @ImranKhanPTI کی توشہ خانہ کیس میں ضمانت پہ رہائی بہت بہت مبارک ہو !

— Ali Muhammad Khan (@Ali_MuhammadPTI) November 20, 2024

Imran Khan, along with his wife, Bushra Bibi, is accused of illegally keeping and selling state gifts while in office. Both deny the allegations, with Khan maintaining that the cases are politically motivated.

Pending Legal Challenges

Although Khan’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, remains optimistic about his eventual release, at least eight pending cases block his freedom. The former Prime Minister has been sentenced in several cases, but convictions have been overturned on appeal.

PTI’s Reaction and Supporters’ Rally

یہ اچھا موقع ہے امن اور سلامتی کی طرف جانے کا۔ کسی اور جھوٹے مقدمے میں@ImranKhanPTI
کو گرفتار نہیں کیا جائے۔

آسان حل ہے?

ملک کو ہیجانی کیفیت میں مبتلا کیا ہوا ہے۔ معیشت خراب، بے روزگاری عروج پر، لاکھوں روزی کے لیئے وطن چھوڑ رہے ہیں، انٹرنیٹ بند، آئی ٹی سیکٹر کو بریک لگ گئے… https://t.co/1B2gVyIZzu

— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) November 20, 2024

Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), celebrated the bail decision. PTI MNA Ali Muhammad Khan congratulated the nation, and former senator Faisal Javed demanded his immediate release. Supporters have announced a rally in Islamabad on Sunday to protest, despite a government ban.

Ruling Party’s Criticism

The ruling PML-N criticized the court’s decision, accusing the judiciary of favoritism. Former President Arif Alvi, however, called the verdict a step toward peace and security, urging against further “false cases” against Khan.

Pak Senator Faisal Vawda Links Ex-ISI Chief’s Arrest To PTI

August 13, 2024, 2:50 pm

After the arrest of former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hamid, Pakistani independent Senator Faisal Vawda stated that this is merely the start of “many more to come,” according to Geo News. He linked the former ISI chief’s arrest by the military to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, founded by Imran Khan.

“This is just the beginning; many big figures are about to fall,” he said. Vawda praised the development as an “excellent decision” for the country’s benefit and vowed to hold accountable anyone responsible for any harm caused to Pakistan.

“The process of accountability will be seen in the country,” he said.

He also claimed that Imran Khan, the PTI founder who is currently imprisoned, and his party will soon face repercussions. He described the PTI and the former spy chief as “two sides of the same coin,” according to Geo News.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced the arrest of the former ISI chief, stating that he was detained by the army on charges of land grabbing and seizing valuables from the owner of a private housing society. The ISPR also mentioned that appropriate disciplinary measures have been initiated against him under the Pakistan Army Act.

Meanwhile, Rana Sanaullah, Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s advisor on political and public affairs, also lauded Hamid’s arrest, suggesting it would boost public confidence and respect for the Pakistan Army. He noted that the former general was among those who signed the agreement during the Faizabad sit-in and assured that the court-martial process would follow military law. Sanaullah asserted that Hamid was involved in manipulating individuals to orchestrate the Faizabad sit-in, and that the investigation would uncover all pertinent details.

“Multiple irregularities must have been found in this regard,” he said, adhering to the ISPR’s statement on the matter.

Pakistani Government Announces Plan to Ban Imran Khan’s PTI Party

July 15, 2024, 5:45 pm

Pakistani government on Monday announced its intention to ban Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the political party of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar made the announcement, just days after the Supreme Court granted a significant legal victory to the PTI by declaring it eligible for a share of reserved seats in national and provincial assemblies.

“The government has decided to ban PTI after reviewing all the available evidence. We will file a case to ban the party,” Tarar stated, citing accusations including incitement of violent protests last year and leaking classified information. He added that the case would be brought to the Supreme Court.

Tarar also revealed plans to bring treason charges against Khan and two other senior party leaders—former President Arif Alvi and ex-Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Qasim Suri. Additionally, the government intends to file a review appeal against the Supreme Court’s ruling that mandated the PTI be allotted some assembly seats reserved for women and members of religious minorities.

In response, Sayed Zulfiqar Bukhari, a senior PTI leader and party spokesperson, told Al Jazeera that the government’s decision “betrays their complete panic.”

“After realizing that they cannot threaten or blackmail the courts and judges any longer, they have decided to make this move via the cabinet. All their attempts to stop us have been declared illegal by the courts,” Bukhari said.

PTI Turmoil Deepens: Resignations & Calls For Leadership Change Rock Imran Khan’s Party

June 29, 2024, 1:33 pm

Internal divisions within Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) deepened as lawmaker Junaid Akbar resigned on Saturday, according to a report by The Express Tribune. Akbar, a Member of the National Assembly, echoed demands by fellow party member Sher Afzal Marwat for the resignation of PTI Senator Shibli Faraz, alleging that access to party founder Imran Khan was being restricted. Akbar claimed that certain individuals enjoy privileged access to Khan while others are denied.

Akbar criticized these individuals, stating, “Their interests are intertwined, benefiting from decisions aligned with Imran Khan’s views. These people, along with their families and friends, are the beneficiaries.” Despite his resignation, Akbar reaffirmed his allegiance to PTI, emphasizing, “PTI is my home, and I am not affiliated with any group nor will I be.”

This development follows the resignation of Omar Ayub, who stepped down as PTI Secretary General and Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, signaling further changes within the party’s organizational framework. The Express Tribune reported that following Ayub’s resignation, there were indications that 27 PTI-backed lawmakers from the Sunni Ittehad Council were contemplating resigning from the National Assembly in protest against the party leadership. Additionally, 21 lawmakers hinted at forming a forward bloc due to dissatisfaction with the leadership’s efforts to secure the release of incarcerated PTI leaders.

The disgruntled MNAs criticized party leaders for prioritizing personal ambitions over the release of Imran Khan and other jailed party members. Despite these tensions, PTI lawmakers passed a resolution expressing “complete trust” in Ayub’s leadership and rejected his resignation. Discussions have since ensued regarding the appointment of a new Secretary General, potentially from Punjab, with Sheikh Waqas Akram from Jhang being considered as a likely candidate, as reported by The Express Tribune.

PTI To Engage In Dialogue With Decision-Makers, Says Former President Alvi

June 5, 2024, 9:32 am

Arif Alvi, a senior leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former president, emphasized the party’s stance on engaging in dialogue with those who hold genuine decision-making power. Alvi’s remarks came amidst calls from the incumbent government urging the PTI to initiate talks to resolve the ongoing political crisis in the country, as reported by Geo News.

Responding to perceptions that the incarcerated PTI founder was reluctant to engage in dialogue with political opponents, Alvi asserted that his party would engage with entities capable of making substantive decisions.

Alvi’s comments followed a press conference in Lahore, where he expressed disillusionment with the accountability process in Pakistan, stating, “I have lost all hope as accountability is impossible in our country.” He commended the Islamabad High Court’s verdict in the diplomatic cable case, labeling the prosecution as baseless.

Criticizing the elite class for resisting accountability and investigations into sensitive matters, Alvi underscored his skepticism about achieving justice in Pakistan, alleging that accountability has not been a priority since the era of former military ruler Ayub Khan.

Highlighting the adverse effects of political developments on Pakistan’s economy, Alvi lamented the uncertainty created by regime changes, which prompted local businesses to invest overseas.

Last week, PTI rejected reconciliation offers from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor, dismissing them as futile. PTI spokespersons rebuffed dialogue overtures from Minister for Petroleum Division Musadik Malik and KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, labeling them as irrelevant mediators lacking authority and credibility, as reported by ARY News.

Pakistan: Imran Khan’s Party Reacts to Demolition Of Their Head Office

May 24, 2024, 12:19 pm

Reacting to the recent demolition of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) central secretariat portion in Islamabad yesterday,

The party has declared that the government has “violated the sanctity of a political party’s office”.

Talking to media outside the office, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, claimed, that the capital development authority did not obtain any permit for the operation, neither they had sent notice during the last two years.

Later, the chairman also claimed, there were no illegal constructions in the premises.

“Even if there were encroachments, the CDA should have sent prior notice before the operation. said Gohar Ali Khan.

Taking to social media platform X, PTI Islamabad called out the office demolition, saying,

“Late-night armed invasion and vandalism of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf central office. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf strongly condemns the invasion of the biggest political party of the country by the mandate thief government in the dark of night. Reiterating our commitment not to bow down to intimidation, lawlessness and blind use of force and not to give up in any way from the agenda of true freedom…”

پاکستان تحریک انصاف کے مرکزی دفتر پر رات گئے مسلح یلغار اور توڑ پھوڑ

پاکستان تحریک انصاف کیجانب سے ملک کی سب سے بڑی سیاسی جماعت پر مینڈیٹ چور سرکار کی رات کے اندھیرے میں یلغار کی شدید مذمت

دھونس، لاقانونیت اور طاقت کے اندھے استعمال کے سامنے نہ جھکنے اور حقیقی آزادی کے ایجنڈے…

— PTI Islamabad (@PTIOfficialISB) May 23, 2024

Meanwhile, PTI General secretary and opposition leader Omar Ayub, had earlier accused interior minister Mohsin Naqvi for the conspiracy of ‘illegal’ operation” at party’s office.

He also emphasized, that PTI is being unfairly targeted. The party will fight this battle through legal ways.

“We will summon Chairman CDA, IG Islamabad to the Privileges Committee of the National Assembly said Omar Ayub.

Meanwhile, the CDA officials revealed, that only illegal constructions of political party’s offices are being removed.

It has further revealed that the plot on which PTI office is constructed still under the radar, as this land was earlier allotted to an individual called Sartaj Ali.

What Has Transpired Thus Far?

So far, the CDA’s anti-encroachment team had demolished the portion of PTI’s office on Thursday.

As per the details, anti-encroachment team along with district administration has currently sealed PTI’s office.

Pakistan Government Prepares For Imran Khan’s Virtual Appearance In Supreme Court

May 16, 2024, 11:52 am

The government of Pakistan has made preparations for Pakistan’s Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan’s presence in the Supreme Court via the virtual address in the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) amendments case. Which will be heard today.

This will be Khan’s first appearance since his arrest in Toshkhana’s case last August.

The administration of Adiala Jail has made complete arrangements for the former Pakistan prime minister for his virtual court appearance

But they have also added that it depends on Imran Khan’s decision to appear before the court or not.

Earlier, the apex court allowed khan to attend court proceedings in NAB’s amendment’s case virtually.

The Five-member bench consisting of, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Qazi Faez Isa, Justice Amin-Ud-Din Khan, Justice Jamal Mandokhail, Justice Athar Minallah and Justice Hassan Azhar, has already heard government pleas, challenging NAB amendments judgement.

Earlier, these judges also had a discussion among themselves, and later, ordered both federal and Punjab government to facilitate khan’s presence via video link from Adiala Jail.

However, under Supreme Court Practice and Procedure Law, the federal government filed review plea and declared Federation of Pakistan, National Accountability Bureau and PTI founder respondents.

In addition, it also pleaded the court, to nullify their judgement, saying that there is not violation of basic rights under the NAB amendments. “Legislation is the right of Parliament.” said the plea.

What Has Happened In This Case So Far?

Meanwhile, in September last year, pakistan’s top court, removed amendments, which were made to National Accountability Bureau laws.

In a 2-1 majority verdict, the apex court also approved Imran khan’s plea, which challenged the amendments made during the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM)-led government.

As a result, court also restored graft cases against public officers, that got closed down after NAB law amendments.

JUI-F Chief Sees Benefits in Consensus with PTI: Reports

May 8, 2024, 4:52 am

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), expressed that it would be highly advantageous for his party if Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, led by Imran Khan, were to reach a consensus with them, as per a report by ARY News.

In an interview with a private news program, Maulana Fazlur Rehman highlighted substantial divisions akin to “mountain-sized” obstacles between the two parties.

He said, “PTI’s delegation has come to us, and as per our tradition, we have welcomed them.”

According to the JUI-F chief, things will improve once their issues with the PTI are resolved. “If not, each political party has its own position and viewpoint,” he said, according to ARY News.

Maulana Fazalur Rehman mentioned that all parties had agreed to tackle the concerns raised by the PTI team. He remarked that one or two individuals from PTI occasionally make “inappropriate” remarks about the JUI-F, but they do not take such statements seriously.

“We consider only the delegation responsible as they told us they were sent by the PTI founder. As long as there is no violation from their side, we will stick to our stance,” ARY News quoted Maulana Fazalur Rehman as saying.

On May 2, Maulana Fazlur Rehman reiterated his rejection of the general election results and called for fresh elections, citing allegations of widespread rigging and irregularities. Speaking at a public gathering in Karachi, Maulana Fazlur Rehman asserted that the assemblies had been “sold.” “Sindh Assembly and President House were also sold,” he added. The JUI-F chief urged for prompt re-elections to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process.

“The recent elections were fake, and its results are unacceptable,” he added. The JUI-F chief insisted on new elections to ensure that the voice of the people is acknowledged and their mandate is upheld.

Imran Khan: PTI Leaders in Contact with Establishment

April 7, 2024, 10:28 am

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that few of his party leaders were in contact with the establishment after the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was put in pressure in the form of arrests and desertions after the violence on May 9, Dawn reported.

Khan was willing to hold talks with anyone for the sake of Pakistan.

Khan expressed to journalists at Adiala Jail after the Al-Qadir Trust case hearing that he’s open to discussions with anyone for the sake of Pakistan.

The PTI founder remarked that if he could engage in dialogue with Pakistan’s former army chief, Qamar Javed Bajwa, whom he later blamed for the downfall of the PTI government in 2022, then he’s open to talks with anyone, given the challenging circumstances the country is facing.

Imran stated that some leaders within the PTI “are still in contact with the establishment” for potential negotiations, as per a Dawn report. However, he refrained from providing additional specifics.

He remarked that the PTI’s mandate had been usurped and there were “efforts were being made to take over the party”. Imran Khan claimed that his wife, Bushra Bibi, was purportedly being singled out to exert pressure on him, and asserted that those accusing her aimed to “dismantle” the PTI.

The PTI founder emphasized that he had never engaged in a direct confrontation with the military, hinting at his relationship with Pakistan’s former chief of army staff, despite his government’s removal. Imran Khan accused the former Pakistan army chief of betraying him, noting that he could have revoked his appointment but chose restraint.

Around the period of his removal from office, Imran alleged that General Bajwa was implicated in a conspiracy supported by the US to oust him.

In discussions with reporters on Saturday, Imran mentioned that he conveyed a message to Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, via former Pakistan President Arif Alvi, indicating his awareness of the purported ‘London Plan’, as reported by Dawn.

Imran claimed that on Aug 5 last year, police entered his bedroom with the intention of detaining him, according to the Dawn report. He asserted that during the incident, the police seized his passport and chequebook, and mentioned that Bushra Bibi had relocated her valuables to a safe place. Imran also alleged that intelligence agencies had pressured his staff to become ‘approver’ against him.

The PTI founder remarked that Pakistan was confronting a situation reminiscent of the 1970s. Referring to the current government, Khan stated, “the king is sitting behind and [interior minister] Mohsin Naqvi is at the forefront as his viceroy,” as reported by Dawn. He further claimed that Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif had no authority.

Meanwhile, the accountability court proceeded with recording the testimony of witnesses, with five prosecution witnesses having been cross-examined by the defense counsel on Saturday. The case will resume following the Eid holidays.

Imran Khan’s PTI blames Shehbaz Sharif-led govt for inflated power bills

August 27, 2023, 10:55 am

According to Dawn, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) blamed the Pakistan Muslim League-N party for the increase in electricity prices and issued a warning that prices could rise to about 85 Pakistani Rupees (PKR) per unit in the coming months.

With protests erupting over inflated power bills, PTI secretary general Omar Ayub Khan said the PML-N government was responsible for the “inflated and unbearable” electricity bills.
He stated further that the PML-N was making the country dependent on expensive imported energy, as the capacity payments due to take-and-pay contracts had touched PKR 2,000 billion this year.
“PML-N made Pakistan dependent on expensive imported energy and today 70 per cent of the electricity produced in Pakistan is dependent on imported fuels,” he said.

He claimed that the devaluation of the rupee was increasing the fuel price adjustments. He asserted that the price of electricity had increased by more than four times in just 15 months, from PKR 16 per unit during the PTI administration to PKR 68 per unit, according to Dawn. The general public and trade associations protested following the increase in electricity costs in several cities, and Anwarul-Haq Kakar, the caretaker prime minister of Pakistan, was later informed of the situation. After considering the situation, he called an urgent meeting for Sunday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan summoned by IHC for three separate cases

May 31, 2023, 12:47 pm

Imran Khan, the chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former prime minister, is set to make an appearance before the Islamabad High Court (IHC) today. He is facing three different cases: the National Crime Agency’s investigation into 190 million pounds Al Qadir case, charges of violating section 144 during a rally in Islamabad, and allegations of instigating violence after his arrest on 9 May. According to a report from Dawn, Imran Khan’s previous bail, which was granted two weeks ago, has now expired, necessitating his presence in court today. The hearing is scheduled to commence at 2 pm. Previously, on 12 May, the court issued a directive preventing authorities from arresting Imran Khan in various cases, including undisclosed ones, until 15 May. In a subsequent hearing, the court extended this restriction on arrest until 31 May.

In addition to the aforementioned cases, the court will also address Imran Khan’s bail petitions related to the violation of section 144 during a rally held in Islamabad in support of the judiciary, as well as the incidents of violence that took place on May 9. Dawn has reported that the hearing for these two cases is scheduled to commence at 2:30 pm on Wednesday. Furthermore, an accountability court will later consider the bail application of Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Al Qadir Trust case.

As per Imran Khan’s legal advisor, the chairman of PTI is scheduled to depart from Zaman Park for Islamabad on Wednesday. In relation to the National Crime Agency (NCA) scandal involving 190 million pounds (PKR 60 billion), the federal government had previously included the name of the former prime minister and PTI chief, Imran Khan, on the Exit Control List (ECL). This development was reported by ARY News, a Pakistani news channel known for providing comprehensive coverage on various topics including politics, business, finance, entertainment, and weather updates.

Pakistan: Imran Khan gets interim bail in eight cases until June 8

May 23, 2023, 2:25 pm

Imran Khan was given temporary release on bail on Tuesday by Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in eight counts that have been filed against him until June 8 and are connected to the violence that broke out at the Judicial Complex here in March, according to ARY News.

After police and Imran Khan’s followers got into a fight before he showed up at the courthouse on March 18, numerous cases were filed against him. Prior to the PTI chief’s visit, security at the courthouse and the NAB office was stepped up, and a sizable police presence was stationed there to handle any untoward incidents, according to ARY News.

Today, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Khan reached the Islamabad judicial complex, ahead of his appearance before the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) at its Rawalpindi office in the Pound 190 million settlement case.The accused has to join the investigation after security interim bail but Imran Khan is saying his leg is injured and he cannot join the probe.To this, Salman Safdar, the former prime minister’s counsel in his arguments before the court said his client booked in over 160 cases and added they are ready to join the investigation.The court after hearing arguments from both sides extended interim bail of Imran Khan in eight cases until June 8. The judge also directed the JIT to inform the court how they want Imran Khan to join the investigation, according to ARY News.

Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi gets pre-arrest bail in Al-Qadir Trust case

May 23, 2023, 1:02 pm

Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and a member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has been granted interim bail in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case until May 31.The Islamabad Accountability Court approved her pre-arrest bail plea and required her to submit a surety bond of Rs 500,000. The case hearing was held in the Islamabad Accountability Court, with Judge Muhammad Bashir presiding over the proceedings. The judge has also issued a notice to the investigative officer to scrutinize the evidence and continue the investigations.

It is pertinent to mention here that Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted security bail to Bushra Bibi till May 23 in the Al-Qadir Trust case and directed Bushra Bibi to approach the relevant court by the due date.According to the details, the wife of PTI chief Imran Khan presented before the court, the defence lawyer of Bushra Bibi, Khawaja Haris requested a 10-day protective bail for her client. The court accepted the request and granted her bail until May 23, reported ARY News.The National Accountability Bureau is conducting investigations into the former prime minister, his wife Bushra Bibi, and other PTI officials for their roles in a deal the PTI government made with a property tycoon that reportedly caused a loss of 190 million pounds to the national exchequer.The authorities have accused Khan and the other defendants of using Rs50 billion, which the Pakistani government received as part of an agreement with the property tycoon by Britain’s National Crime Agency (NCA).

Lahore Police obtain search warrant for Imran Khan’s Residence

May 19, 2023, 6:27 pm

Lahore Capital City Police on Friday secured a warrant to search Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s Zaman Park residence.

This follows a Capital City Police Officer’s (CCPO) claims of arresting six more “terrorists” attempting to flee from Khan’s residence in Lahore. According to CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamyana, four of the alleged terrorists were involved in the Askari Tower attack while the other two were among those who ransacked the Corps Commander House on May 9. The total number of arrests now stands at 14.

On Wednesday, the Punjab government had claimed that “30-40 terrorists were hiding inside” the former Prime Minister’s residence and gave the PTI 24 hours to to hand them over or face action.

Eight of these alleged terrorists had previously been arrested while escaping the Zaman Park area on Thursday.

According to sources, the Punjab government decided to send a team to hold talks with PTI leadership before conducting the operation. A negotiation team headed by Lahore Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa is slated to reach Zaman Park after the Friday prayers to conduct the search.

Punjab’s Interim Information Minister Amir Mir said the team will decide a time with Khan and search the property in the presence of cameras. A contingent of nearly 400 officers is expected to accompany the team “to arrest terrorists holed up there.”

Meanwhile, Khan took to Twitter to air his concerns: “The mindset behind this unprecedented crackdown and current reign of terror that PTI and its supporters are being subjected to (that was not even witnessed during Zia and Musharraf martial laws) is that we Pakistanis are like a herd of sheep who can be terrorised enough to meekly bow down to this naked show of power.”

Imran Khan claims 7,000 PTI members jailed in party ban attempt

May 15, 2023, 4:59 pm

On Monday, according to former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan, approximately 7,000 PTI leaders, workers, and women have been imprisoned as part of a strategy to outlaw the PTI party.

Khan expressed his concerns by stating, “Instead of conducting investigations to determine the individuals responsible for the arson attack on a government building or the deaths of numerous unarmed protesters from gunshot wounds, approximately 7,000 PTI members, including leaders and women, have been detained with intentions to prohibit the country’s largest and sole federal party.”

Khan also raised apprehensions about the collaboration between these troublemakers and our security agencies, who are allegedly assisting them in seizing control of the Supreme Court and undermining the constitution.

In light of this situation, the PTI chief urged all citizens to prepare for peaceful protests, emphasizing that the destruction of the constitution and the Supreme Court would mark the demise of Pakistan’s aspirations.

After Imran Khan’s arrest, the army was stationed in Punjab, Pakistan

May 10, 2023, 3:55 pm

Following protests sparked by the detention of the nation’s former prime minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, army forces have been sent to Pakistan’s Punjab province to keep the peace, according to Dawn.

“Federal Government, in the exercise of the powers conferred under Article 245 of the Constitution and Section 4 (3) (ii) of Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 (to discharge such functions as specified in the said act), is pleased to authorize the deployment of Pakistan Army troops/assets for maintaining law and order situation across the Punjab province in aid of civil power,” the Ministry of Interior of Pakistan said in an official order. “The exact numbers of troops/assets, date and area of deployment will be worked out by the provincial government in consultation with MO Dte, GHQ,” a notification said.

Punjab and Balochistan governments imposed Section 144 in their respective provinces on Tuesday in response to protests staged across the region following the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan in the Al-Qadir Trust case.Angry protestors stormed government buildings and blocked roads in response to Imran Khan’s detention prompting authorities to enact Section 144.

While his lawsuit against the Al-Qadir University Trust is still being heard by a special accountability court, Khan is being represented by a group of lawyers that includes Khawaja Haris, Barrister Ali Gohar, and Advocate Ali Bukhari.The interim government of Punjab has brought in Pakistan Rangers, and the province’s mobile and internet services have been suspended, according to Samaa TV.

Significant decisions were made to address the law and order situation throughout the province in a meeting of the Provincial Intelligence Committee chaired by the AdditionalChief Secretary of the Home Department.In the wake of the ongoing unrest, the Islamabad administration also implemented Section 144 in the capital territory.

Imran Khan’s aide Asad Umar arrested from court premises

May 10, 2023, 2:28 pm

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Umar was arrested from the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) premises a day after the country’s former prime minister Imran Khan was arrested, reported Geo News.

The Secretary General of PTI was apparently arrested by the Anti-Terrorist Squad of the Islamabad police today. Umar was taken into custody while waiting outside the IHC Bar Association’s office, where they were drafting a plea to submit to the IHC. He had requested a meeting with the PTI Chairman Imran Khan through a petition, according to Geo News.

PTI lawyers attempted to prevent the police from apprehending the force, but Umar was carried away despite their best attempts.Earlier today, Imran Khan’s party called for a nationwide protest against his arrest.Khan was arrested outside Islamabad High Court by Rangers on the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) warrant in the Al-Qadir Trust case.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had started an investigation against Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi and others for the alleged gain of hundreds of canals of land in the name of Al Qadir University Trust, which reportedly caused a loss of 190 million pounds to the national exchequer.

PTI workers also held protests in cities across Pakistan, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, and Mardan, reported Geo News. In Karachi, demonstrators clashed with the police near Nursery. They pelted stones at police vehicles and tore down street lights.Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senior Vice President Fawad Chaudhry said the party will approach the Supreme Court on Wednesday morning to challenge the Islamabad High Court’s upholding of party chairman Imran Khan’s arrest.

Pakistan: Imran Khan-led PTI will kick off its electoral campaign in Punjab tomorrow

April 23, 2023, 5:19 pm

Asad Umar, the secretary general of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), stated on Sunday that the party will begin its election campaign for the Punjab elections on Monday amid the election’s uncertainties.

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Asad Umar stated, “Tehreek-e-Insaf will officially launch its election campaign from tomorrow. They (PDM) may not be ready but we are ready.” Earlier this week, the PTI finalised a list of 297 candidates for the elections.

PTI’s announcement of launching the election campaign comes despite uncertainty over the polls. The PTI finalised the list of candidates after the party’s chairman Imran Khan interviewed all party candidates in person to uphold merit in distributing party tickets. He held one-on-one interviews with all candidates from 6-18 April to select nominees for polls, as per the Geo News report. However, the issuance of tickets has not gone well within the PTI as many high-profile leaders of the party were not given tickets.

Imran Khan has been planning to include PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Asad Umar in the review committee to address objections raised by party members, Geo News reported citing sources. On Thursday, the PTI set up a four-member committee to address objections regarding the issuance of party tickets.

The panel included Musaddiq Abbasi, Ijaz Chaudhary, Rai Hassan Nawaz, and Aoon Abbas. However, after backlash from party workers and supporters, PTI chairman Imran Khan is likely to involve some senior members to make a decision over the appeals regarding the issuance of tickets, as per the Geo News report.The Election Commission of Pakistan (PTI) is waiting for funds from Pakistan’s federal government to hold elections, as per the news report. Earlier this month, the Pakistan Supreme Court directed the ECP to conduct elections in Punjab on 14 May.

PTI party releases a white paper, detailing PDM government ‘devastated the economy’

April 10, 2023, 5:54 pm

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) published a white paper to mark the first year that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), a multi-party coalition that deposed Imran Khan’s administration with a no-trust vote in April of last year, had been in power. The paper highlighted how the coalition had “devastated” the economy and “contravered” the Constitution, according to Dawn.

To commemorate the first year that the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), a multi-party coalition that ousted Imran Khan’s government with a no-confidence vote in April of last year, had been in power, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) released a white paper that emphasised how the coalition had “devastated” the economy and “contravered” the Constitution, according to Dawn.

The document spans six chapters and passes a scathing judgement on the PDM government’s style of governance, particularly the treatment given to the opposition party by the ruling coalition. It also deliberates on issues related to economy, Constitution, democracy and rule of law, political exploitation of state institutions, attack on judiciary, ‘chained’ foreign policy, and law and order. According to a report in Dawn, the party has dedicated the white paper to PTI chief Imran Khan, party workers, and the people of Pakistan, who are “fighting and facing torture for real independence” and democracy.

The PTI chief also spoke via video link from his residence in Zaman Park on the launch of the white paper. The former premier accused the government of ravaging the country’s all institutions, rule of law, and the economy as well as violations of basic human rights.
Khan claimed that the federal government would not allow elections to be conducted as per the court order and appealed to his supporters to remain prepared to take to the streets for the sake of basic human rights and justice.

Stating that the country was now awake to protect its rights and standing with the judiciary, Khan said the nation would be required to come out on roads in both situations — either the government does not hold elections, or elections are held after a crackdown on PTI with its leadership incarcerated.

Khan also accepted that the conspiracy to overthrow his government was not hatched in the US. It was actually General Bajwa who had planned the conspiracy with the help of Shehbaz Sharif and then hired Hussain Haqqani to launch propaganda that “Gen Bajwa was pro-America and Imran Khan was anti-America”.

The former premier acknowledged, “The cipher made entry came only after the conspiracy had taken its roots.”
On the day when he left the PM office with “only a diary in his hand”, Khan said the PTI had launched a white paper that what actually had happened to Pakistan during the past year. He said the nation must know the fate of Pakistan just because a few people took a decision behind closed doors, as per Dawn.

The former premier also said his government inherited a bankrupt economy in 2018 when Pakistan was facing its highest USD 20 billion current account deficit with only USD 8 billion in reserves.

He said, “The PTI government stabilised the economy….fought against the coronavirus pandemic…eventually boosted the economy to rise by 5.7 per cent and 6 per cent during the last two years of its rule.”
He bemoaned the growth rate had now slid down to 0.4 per cent which has pushed at least four million people below the poverty line. He added, “The 12 per cent inflation has now risen to almost 35 per cent.”

Stating the PDM government faced no crisis and still blowing the trumpet of the rise in terrorism, Mr Khan claimed there was a grave surge in terror incidents during the PTI government but it controlled the “menace and drove Pakistan from terrorism to tourism”. He claimed the incumbent rulers did not rehabilitate the TTP when the Afghan Taliban sent them back to Pakistan. It may be noted here that the PTI government had planned to resettle TTP militants in tribal districts, reported Dawn.

While speaking of the prohibited funding case Imran Khan said, “The foreign funding case has ended and the Toshakhana case will meet the same fate…Nawaz Sharif and Asif Ali Zardari would now be caught in this case.” The Toshakhana record was now available and their act of stealing cars would be exposed soon, he claimed.

Pakistan: Imran arrives at Islamabad HC for pre-arrest bail in multiple cases

March 27, 2023, 1:59 pm

According to Geo News, Imran Khan, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), appeared before the Islamabad High Court on Monday to request pre-arrest release in several cases brought against him in the federal capital.

Imran Khan’s lawyers petitioned the IHC for pre-arrest bail in the multiple cases registered in different police stations throughout the federal capital, it ask the court to prevent the federal government from arresting the PTI chief in those cases, claiming that the cases were filed for political revenge.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Monday barred the television channels from live and recorded coverage of rallies or public gatherings by any party, organization, and individual being held in the federal capital today, Geo News reported.

The According to the regulatory body, the prohibition order includes a ban on any procession or rally being staged today in the federal capital under Section 27(a) of the PEMRA Ordinance 2002. It ordered a ban on live coverages, and rallies just before Imran Khan departed for Islamabad from Lahore to appear in the court for his cases.

In an advisory issued on Monday titled “Prohibition order on live coverage under Section 27 of Pemra Ordinance 2002”, the electronic media regulator stated that it has been observed with concern that satellite TV channels are showing live footage and images of a violent mob, attacks on police and law enforcing agencies, Geo News reported.

“Such footage/images were seen on TV screens without any editorial oversight during a recent standoff between political party workers and law enforcing agencies in Lahore wherein, a violent mob used petrol bombs, injuring armless policemen and blazing police vehicles. The live telecast of such footage on different satellite TV channels created chaos and panic among the viewers and Police,” it stated.

The Lahore High Court orders the police to halt the arrest of Imran Khan till tomorrow at 10 am

March 15, 2023, 5:47 pm

Imran Khan, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former prime minister of Pakistan was put on hold by the Lahore High Court on Wednesday till 10 am at Zaman Park, according to Dawn.
This development follows a day-long escalation outside the home of former prime minister Imran between PTI supporters and law enforcement. Police units that had been encircling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan’s house in Zaman Park for the past two days to arrest him have begun to back off.
PTI employees celebrated outside Zaman Park when law enforcement agencies pulled back. According to the police, the court-ordered operation to suspended to make accommodations for Pakistan Super League games, as per Dawn.

PTI claims Imran Khan ‘attacked through bullets, expired tear gas’

March 15, 2023, 2:28 pm

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Wednesday claimed that party chief Imran Khan was attacked “through bullets, expired tear gas, etc.” “Pakistan’s most popular leader and former Prime Minister was attacked through bullets, expired tear gas, and etc. The fascism of this regime stands exposed,” PTI tweeted on its official Twitter handle at 11:52 a.m. on Wednesday. The party also alleged that Zaman Park, where the PTI chairman was holed up in his house, is “under extreme attack” by law enforcement personnel, the Pakistan-based Dawn newspaper reported.

In a tweet at 11:48 a.m. on Wednesday, PTI shared a video alleging “open firing by Rangers and Police”, without specifying when the video was filmed. It added that Zaman Park is “under extreme attack”. The footage could not be independently verified by Dawn, and it could not be ascertained if it was from today.

Dawn on Wednesday reported that a police team that arrived at Imran Khan’s residence in the Zaman Park area on Tuesday to arrest him faced fierce resistance from the PTI supporters, who braved tear gas and water cannons to keep the police personnel at bay.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf workers engaged the police for more than 11 hours.On Tuesday night, PTI gained the upper hand in Lahore. The influx of a large number of supporters into Zaman Park forced security men to retreat. By midnight, the police had suffered around 30 casualties. Geo News reported that at least 15 PTI men had also been detained by the police, according to Dawn.

Earlier, Imran Khan accused the federal government of planning his arrest according to a “London plan” to finish all cases against the country’s former premier, Nawaz Sharif. “This is part of the London plan, and an agreement has been signed there to put Imran in jail, make the PTI fall, and finish all cases against Nawaz Sharif,” Khan said in a video message.

Pakistan’s PTI considers appointed Imran Khan as Patron-in chief

January 21, 2023, 4:39 pm

Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) top leadership has reviewed the legal challenges regarding Imran Khan’s position as the party chief and has considered appointing him as the party’s ‘Patron-in-chief’ to avoid the danger of him being removed as the party’s chairman.

Khan is currently facing criminal charges in the Toshakana case after Pakistan’s Election Commission disqualified him from NA-95 (Mianwali-1) constituency for allegedly filing incorrect statements of assets.

Imran Khan’s PTI to resume march, Punjab deploys over 1500 security personnel

November 10, 2022, 12:09 pm

As Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) is bound to resume its “Haqeeqi Azadi march” the provincial Punjab government has deployed 1,542 security personnel along with officers in four districts of provinces to ensure that security arrangements are in place, as reported by the Dawn. PTI will be resuming the march which stalled during an assassination attempt on former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The march will resume from Wazirabad in Punjab province to Islamabad in pretext of their demand to hold fresh elections.

Before the march, PTI tweeted, “Pakistan get ready!!! God willing, on Thursday, November 10, at 1:00 p.m., the Haqeeqi Azadi Long March will resume its journey from Wazirabad Allahwale Chowk,”

According to the directive issued by the additional inspector general of police (PHP) to divisional police chiefs, among the 1,542 PHP personnel, 500 shall be kept at Gujrat Police Lines as IGP Reserve as long as the long march is in the jurisdiction of Gujrat Region to tackle any emergency situation. Afterward, the force shall shift to Jhelum and Rawalpindi to assist the local police for the same. According to Dawn, out of 1,542 PHP personnel, 242 have been deployed in Gujarat, 500 in Jhelum, and 300 in Attock.

“PTI vice-chairman and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will lead the march from Wazirabad on Thursday at 2 pm (local time). The long march will resume with prayers for those killed and injured in the shooting. A sea of people will reach Islamabad to push the coalition government of 13 parties led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to announce the date for early elections” PTI Punjab leader and health minister Dr Yasmin Rashid said.

“Jail Bharo” movement’s launch announced by Imran Khan amid arrest reports

October 9, 2022, 2:33 pm

While the speculations of former Pakistan prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan are still in the air, he announced the launch of the ‘Jail Bharo Tehreek'(fill the prison movement). This movement is aimed against the ruling coalition of the Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

Imran, while addressing a public gathering in Mianwali on Saturday, warned the federal government against threatening the PTI supporters of detention. Khan said that he would “sacrifice his life for real freedom of the country.”

He further said that “millions of people are ready to fill jails. We are not scared of getting arrested as I would soon announce a Jail Bharo Tehreek.”

Ahead of the Azadi march, Khan said that his party has “far better plans than the government for the protest.” “All plans of the ‘imported’ government against PTI would fail and they would be forced to announce elections,” he claimed.

A plan ‘B’ has been prepared by the ruling Pakistani govt to arrest the PTI chief before entering Islamabad fearing he would begin his Azadi march from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or Punjab, or at Rawat T-cross. Police are deployed to arrest him in Tranol, in incase he tried to enter the capital from that direction.