The statement condemned violence against its supporters and pledged to announce future actions after consulting PTI’s incarcerated leader, Imran Khan.
Violent Clashes Erupt
On Tuesday night, PTI supporters marched toward the barricaded D-Chowk, prompting heavy teargas shelling by police and security forces. The violence escalated, leaving at least two civilians dead and over 60 injured, according to hospital sources.
The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) confirmed the casualties, including injuries to security personnel. Polyclinic also reported treating 13 injured individuals, including three police officers.
Leadership Retreats Amid Chaos
PTI leaders, including Bushra Bibi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, urged protesters to retreat late Tuesday night. Gandapur reportedly advised supporters to “go home, have dinner, and return tomorrow.”
PTI announced it would hold an emergency press conference at 11 AM on Wednesday at KP Speaker Babar Saleem Swati’s residence in Peshawar. Senior party leaders, including Bushra Bibi and Omar Ayub Khan, will address the media.
PTI accused the government of killing at least eight of its workers in direct shootings during the protests. It claimed the authorities used excessive force to suppress its peaceful political movement.
The party appealed to Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi to take suo motu notice of the alleged killings and hold government officials accountable.
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Long History of Struggle
The PTI emphasized its commitment to non-violent protests and accused the government of repeatedly disrupting peaceful demonstrations since 2022. Despite suspending the protest, the party reaffirmed its dedication to the cause of “haqeeqi azadi” (true freedom).
Road to the Protest
The PTI’s protest was planned for November 24 but faced delays due to government resistance. Security forces employed tear gas, baton charges, and mass arrests to deter participants.
Over 500 PTI workers were detained in Islamabad alone, with 800 more arrested across Punjab and nearby areas. The government called in the Pakistan Army to manage the unrest, describing PTI supporters as “miscreants.”
Islamabad High Court Ruling
The Islamabad High Court declared PTI’s protest unlawful and directed authorities to maintain law and order without disrupting public life. The protest coincided with the visit of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, intensifying the government’s security concerns.
The PTI expressed gratitude to its supporters nationwide and overseas for their participation. It also thanked the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi for their hospitality toward party convoys.
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