Supporters of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have staged a rally in Islamabad demanding his release from jail, despite a ban on protests and a police crackdown. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party claimed that party leader Ali Amin Gandapur was abducted and unlawfully detained by authorities, although this could not be independently verified. Gandapur, the chief minister of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, led protesters who were met with tear gas from police as they attempted to enter the city.
The PTI has been organizing a series of protests, facing backlash from authorities. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi accused protesters of clashing with police, resulting in injuries to over 80 officers. Amnesty International expressed concern over restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and movement in Pakistan. Khan, who served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022, was imprisoned last year on various charges, leading to ongoing trials and accusations of political manipulation to prevent his return to power. The PTI has alleged election rigging in February, leading to the arrest of several lawmakers.
Authorities have blocked social media platforms and cut off mobile internet access during protests. The crackdown coincided with diplomatic engagements, including a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting, prompting warnings from Naqvi against disrupting the conference. The situation in Pakistan remains tense as supporters of Imran Khan continue to push for his release and challenge the legitimacy of recent elections.
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