PTI Launches Nationwide Protests Against 26th Constitutional Amendment

On October 31, 2024, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, founded by Imran Khan, declared its intention to initiate a nationwide protest movement. This decision comes in response to the recent passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, which focuses on judicial reforms. The PTI had strongly opposed these amendments in both houses of parliament earlier this month, viewing them as a direct threat to the Constitution of Pakistan and the judiciary.

During a press conference held in Lahore, PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja expressed the party's determination to resist the constitutional changes. He described the 26th Amendment as an "attack on the Constitution of Pakistan and the judiciary." Raja outlined plans for sit-ins and demonstrations across the country, emphasizing that the PTI would not back down in its fight against what it perceives as unjust reforms.

The announcement of this protest movement follows a series of demonstrations organized by the PTI to pressure the current government into reconsidering the judiciary-centric amendments. Earlier in the month, the party had planned a protest at D-Chowk for October 15, but this was postponed due to the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad.

Raja also criticized the government for its treatment of Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned in Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail for over a year. He claimed that Khan is facing "inhumane treatment," a statement that the jail authorities have denied. When asked about the role of Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, following her release from jail, Raja clarified that she has no plans to engage in politics.

In a related development, Raja addressed recent comments made by PTI member Sher Afzal Marwat, who had criticized the party's leadership for its ineffective protest strategies. Raja hinted at possible disciplinary action against Marwat, stating, "We are giving a chance to Sher Afzal Marwat. If he fails to maintain the party's discipline then we will take action against him." In response, Marwat expressed regret over Raja's remarks, asserting that he is willing to collaborate with him but emphasized that his loyalty lies with PTI founder and party chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan.

Marwat had previously described the party's protest efforts as "not up to the mark" during a meeting with the incarcerated Khan. He also mentioned that Khan had instructed the formation of a new protest committee, in which he would participate.

The PTI's decision to mobilize its supporters for a new wave of protests highlights the ongoing political tensions in Pakistan. As the party seeks to rally its base against the government's recent constitutional changes, it remains to be seen how effective these efforts will be in influencing public opinion and political outcomes. The situation underscores the importance of civic engagement and the role of political parties in shaping the future of governance in Pakistan.