Pakistan: Political protests to continue nationwide ahead of no-confidence vote in parliament March 28 /update 1

Event

Political demonstrations are likely to continue in Pakistan ahead of a no-confidence vote for Prime Minister Imran Khan March 28. The opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) has launched a "long march" caravan toward Islamabad as of March 23. The Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) has joined the demonstration, and party supporters will depart from Karachi Toll Plaza March 23 and Naushahro Feroze, Sindh Province, from March 24. The group plans to enter the capital from March 25 and stage a sit-in outside the Parliament House on Constitution Avenue. Other opposition parties could join the protest call in the coming days, boosting participation. Thousands of people are likely to caravan and join the sit-in ahead of the vote.

Meanwhile, the prime minister has called on members of his ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party to hold a mass rally in the capital March 27. However, PTI leaders have moved the rally location from D-Chowk to the nearby Parade Ground. PTI leaders have called for one million participants in the rally. Although participation is likely to be significantly lower, the event could still draw thousands of participants. Smaller pro-government and opposition rallies are also possible in provincial capitals and major cities in the run-up to the vote.

Heightened security measures are almost certain near rally points in cities and along caravan routes throughout the country. The Islamabad High Court has banned gatherings within the capital's Red Zone, including D-Chowk, Parliament House, and other government buildings. Officials could erect checkpoints and cordons near D-Chowk and other areas of Islamabad in the coming days. Officials have already ordered the deployment of at least 1,000 security personnel to protect government buildings in Islamabad. Authorities may also disperse disruptive protesters, especially if they attempt to bypass security measures near government buildings in the capital. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. The proximity of the demonstrations raises the potential for inter-party violence.

Localized transport disruptions are probable along main routes in and around Rawalpindi and Islamabad ahead of the vote. However, the most intense disruptions are likely near the rally sites in the capital.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Follow all security personnel instructions. Monitor local media or check with local contacts on security and transport conditions, as organizers could change tactics or plans at short notice. Allow additional time to reach destinations in Rawalpindi and Islamabad from March 23.