Islamabad Lockdown Enforced Ahead of Protests for Imran Khan’s Release

Islamabad's Red Zone Under Siege as Protests for Imran Khan's Release Escalate

ISLAMABAD, Nov 24 – Islamabad's red zone, which houses the parliament, key government institutions, and foreign embassies, has become the focal point of intense political unrest as supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan plan their protests. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by Khan's supporters, is demanding the release of the former leader and the resignation of the current government over claims of a rigged election.

In a video message on Saturday, Ali Amin Gandapur, a senior PTI leader, encouraged demonstrators to gather in the red zone and remain there until their demands are met. Among these demands are the release of Khan and other detained PTI leaders, as well as the resignation of the sitting government.

Khan, who was ousted from office in 2022 and arrested in August last year, faces multiple charges including corruption and incitement to violence, all of which he and his party vehemently deny.

The situation in Islamabad has raised concerns about escalating violence. The last PTI protest in early October turned deadly, with one policeman killed, several security personnel injured, and numerous protesters arrested. Both sides blamed each other for the violence, exacerbating the political tension and raising fears of further instability.

These constant protests are destroying the economy and creating instability... we want the political leadership to sit together and resolve these matters," said Muhammad Asif, a 35-year-old Islamabad resident, while standing in front of a closed market.