Islamabad, November 23, 2024 — Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has informed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar that the government will not permit any rallies or sit-ins in Islamabad due to heightened security concerns surrounding the visit of a high-ranking Belarusian delegation.
The 80-member delegation, led by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, is scheduled to arrive in Islamabad from November 24 to 27. The restrictions align with Islamabad High Court guidelines that prohibit public gatherings during high-profile international visits.
In a call to Barrister Gohar, Naqvi shared the delegation’s detailed itinerary and emphasized the importance of maintaining security throughout the visit. He reiterated that the government would not authorize any demonstrations during this period. Gohar, in response, said he would consult with PTI leadership before issuing an official reply.
Earlier today, PTI Secretary Information Sheikh Waqas Akram vowed that the party would proceed with its planned demonstration at D-Chowk. “The Constitution guarantees our right to peaceful protest, and we will not back down. On November 24, the entire nation will take to the streets,” Akram stated.
Despite the government’s stance, PTI leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to the protest. In a meeting chaired by Barrister Gohar at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar, senior leaders, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, former President Arif Alvi, Shibli Faraz, and Sheikh Waqas Akram, finalized plans for the November 24 protest.
PTI Peshawar region president Arbab Asim highlighted the logistical preparations, stating, “We have ample private heavy machinery to remove any obstacles. The Youth Wing will take responsibility for security.”
In response to PTI’s announcement, the government has implemented strict security measures. Section 144 has been imposed across Punjab for three days, and thousands of security personnel have been deployed in Islamabad. High-ranking officers, supported by district-level commanders, are supervising the contingents, with the Punjab inspector general in Islamabad to coordinate efforts.
