Shehbaz Sharif Vows to Prevent PTI Protests Ahead of SCO Summit

In the lead-up to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made a firm declaration regarding the potential for protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. The prime minister emphasized that he would not permit a repeat of the 2014 sit-in that significantly disrupted the capital, Islamabad, and had far-reaching consequences for the nation’s economy. This statement comes as the PTI, currently the main opposition party, has initiated protests in the federal capital, raising concerns about security during the upcoming summit scheduled for October 15 and 16.

In 2014, the PTI's prolonged sit-in, which lasted for 126 days, was marked by significant political turmoil. The situation escalated to the point where it led to the cancellation of a crucial visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Islamabad. The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has consistently blamed the PTI for the economic repercussions that followed, arguing that such protests compromise the country’s stability and international relations.

As the SCO summit approaches, which will see the attendance of top officials from China, Russia, India, and other member nations, the stakes are high. The summit is set to take place in Islamabad’s Red Zone, an area known for its heightened security measures. Prime Minister Sharif expressed his commitment to maintaining order, stating, “I will not allow the repeat of 2014 […] the conspiracy that took place. We will not allow this, we will not tolerate this at all. This is my promise to the nation.” His remarks reflect a strong stance against any disruptions that could arise from ongoing protests.

The PTI, on the other hand, claims that their protests are aimed at advocating for the “independence of the judiciary” and demanding the release of their founder, Imran Khan. Party leaders have made it clear that they will not back down unless directed to do so by Khan himself, indicating a potential for continued unrest in the capital.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for both the government and the opposition to navigate this political landscape with caution. The upcoming SCO summit represents not only an opportunity for international dialogue but also a test of Pakistan’s internal stability. The actions taken in the coming days will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the country’s political climate and economic future. It is essential for all parties involved to prioritize the nation’s interests and work towards a peaceful resolution that fosters unity rather than division.