PTI Protest Scheduled in Rawalpindi on September 28 Following Denial of Permission

In a significant development, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has declared that their planned public meeting at Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi will now be converted into a protest. This decision comes after local authorities denied them permission to hold the event, citing security concerns. The protest is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, at 2 PM, and PTI leaders are urging their supporters to attend in large numbers.

PTI leader Sheikh Waqqas Akram announced this change in a video message, emphasizing the importance of the protest in light of the current political climate. He stated that the party has officially withdrawn its request for permission to hold a rally at Liaquat Bagh from the Lahore High Court’s Rawalpindi bench. Despite the setback, Akram encouraged PTI supporters to gather and voice their concerns.

In his message, Akram highlighted several pressing issues that the protest aims to address, including the perceived lack of independence in the judiciary, allegations of electoral manipulation, and the ongoing crisis of rising inflation. He remarked, “Protesting is essential for securing an independent judiciary and against increasing inflation.” This statement reflects the party's commitment to advocating for what they believe are fundamental rights and freedoms.

Furthermore, Akram criticized the government for its actions against PTI's public meetings. He pointed out that even when the party received No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for their rallies, many of their workers and leaders faced arrests, and barriers were placed on their routes to prevent them from reaching the venues. This situation has raised concerns about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in Pakistan.

As the protest date approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. PTI leaders are calling on the public to stand in solidarity, asserting that an independent judiciary is vital for the release of PTI Founder Imran Khan, who has faced legal challenges in recent months. The party believes that a strong turnout will send a clear message to the government about the people's demand for justice and accountability.

The upcoming protest in Rawalpindi is not just a demonstration of political dissent; it is a reflection of the broader struggles faced by citizens in Pakistan today. As issues of governance, judicial independence, and economic hardship continue to dominate the national discourse, the PTI's call to action resonates with many who feel their voices are not being heard. The outcome of this protest could have significant implications for the political landscape in Pakistan, making it a crucial event to watch.