Pakistan: Demonstrators to gather in Islamabad September 19

Event

Activists have called for a demonstration to be held in Islamabad on Saturday, September 19, to demand more severe punishment for people convicted of rape and sexual assault. Participants are expected to gather from 16:00 (local time) outside of the Islamabad National Press Club.

Localized disruption and a heightened security presence in the vicinity of the demonstration is to be anticipated. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

Protests have been held in several cities nationwide after a young girl was kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and killed outside Lahore on September 9. Protests were held over the weekend in Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, and Karachi.

Advice

Those in Islamabad are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.