PTI Protests Continue Until Imran Khan Issues Withdrawal Directive

In recent developments, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has made it clear that it will continue its protests in Islamabad until it receives a directive from its founding chairman, Imran Khan, to withdraw its workers. This decision comes as a significant number of PTI supporters have gathered in the capital, demonstrating their commitment to the cause. The situation has been further complicated by the unexpected actions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, who chose to leave party workers in Islamabad and retreat to the KP House, raising eyebrows among party members and supporters alike.

The PTI's political committee has expressed its discontent regarding the chief minister's disappearance, warning of 'serious repercussions' should he be arrested. In a strategic move, the committee has appointed Azam Swati to lead the protests in the event of Gandapur's arrest, with plans to announce a new leader if Swati also faces detention. This shows the party's determination to maintain its momentum despite the challenges it faces.

Asad Qaiser, a senior PTI leader, emphasized the party's resolve to continue protesting until they receive clear instructions from Imran Khan. He stated, "It was also decided that Azam Swati will lead the protest if Gandapur would be arrested." Qaiser further warned that arresting a sitting chief minister could have disastrous consequences for the country, hinting at the potential for widespread unrest.

In the midst of these tensions, the government has been accused of attempting to detain PTI legislators, with Qaiser criticizing the treatment of party member Zartaj Gul by law enforcement agencies. He remarked, "Although the government has been trying to kidnap MNAs and their family members, we hope they will stand firm on their stance." The situation has escalated, with thousands of PTI workers reportedly arrested across the nation.

Meanwhile, the whereabouts of Chief Minister Gandapur remained uncertain late into the night, marking the third occasion he failed to join the PTI march. Previously, he had been unable to reach Lahore and Rawalpindi, and on Saturday, after entering Islamabad, he opted to leave his supporters and head to the KP House. This decision has led to speculation about his potential arrest, although government sources have denied such claims.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had previously stated that no one would be allowed to enter Islamabad, and measures were in place to handle the protesters firmly. However, a rally led by Gandapur did manage to reach the capital, with some workers gathering near Centaurus Mall and China Chowk, just a short distance from the designated protest area at D-Chowk.

On Friday, PTI supporters, led by Amir Mughal, celebrated Imran Khan's birthday at D-Chowk, further demonstrating their dedication to the party's cause. In a twist, KP government spokesperson Barrister Mohammad Saif claimed that the chief minister had been arrested, but later clarified on social media that he had not been formally detained. He stated, "The KP CM has not been formally arrested, a heavy contingent of Rangers and police are present at KP House. The KP CM is on bail till Oct 25. If arrested, it will be an insult to the mandate of the people of KP, the fake government will have to answer for such unconstitutional and illegal actions."

Adding to the confusion, opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan claimed that Gandapur had indeed been arrested at the KP House. In light of these events, PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan indicated that what was initially planned as a one-day protest has now transformed into a prolonged demonstration due to the government's crackdown on their activities. When questioned about the chief minister's status, Gohar chose not to respond, leaving many in suspense.

The ongoing protests reflect a significant moment in Pakistan's political landscape, highlighting the tensions between the PTI and the current government. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the PTI's unwavering resolve and what implications this will have for the political climate in the country. The determination of the PTI supporters to stand firm in their beliefs serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in the face of adversity.