Authorities in Rawalpindi have imposed Section 144, restricting gatherings, as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) mobilizes for protests demanding access to party founder Imran Khan. The party is deeply concerned by unconfirmed reports circulating on social media that suggest grave danger to Khan’s life while imprisoned in Adiala Jail. To facilitate communication, the PTI has provided prison officials with a roster of six legal representatives seeking an audience with the former Prime Minister. Supporters nationwide are being called upon to assemble outside Adiala Jail as a show of solidarity. In addition to jail-site demonstrations, PTI Members of Parliament are set to protest at the Islamabad High Court. Imran Khan’s sisters are also planning a demonstration outside the prison. Security measures have been heightened considerably around Adiala Jail. Sohail Afridi, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and a PTI stalwart, has voiced strong objections to being denied meetings with Khan, emphasizing a prolonged period of isolation for the leader. The party has signaled that failure to grant access and address concerns could trigger more extensive protests across the country. Allegations on social media have pointed towards potential assassination plots, further escalating the tension surrounding Khan’s incarceration.
