Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf calls for nationwide rallies May 6

Event

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has called for rallies across Pakistan, 17:00-18:00 May 6. The action is to demonstrate solidarity with the country's chief justice, who ordered provincial elections of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces to be held by mid-May, a verdict supported by the PTI. The party has announced demonstrations in Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi, while calling for the public to hold additional protests nationwide. Specific venues are not confirmed. Participation will likely vary depending on location but may reach thousands, particularly in events led by prominent PTI leaders like former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Event plans may change at short notice due to law enforcement restrictions.

Authorities will likely deploy additional security at rally sites. Popular protest venues include press clubs, government buildings, prominent squares in city centers, and main thoroughfares. Localized transport disruptions are likely near large rallies, especially if attendees block or march on roadways. Police roadblocks to prevent gatherings are also possible. Violence cannot be ruled out, particularly if police forcibly disperse crowds breaching security restrictions. Participants may clash with ruling party supporters. Authorities may impose enhanced security measures like Section 144 orders that ban unauthorized public gatherings of over four people. Officials may temporarily suspend mobile internet services to prevent or control any violence.

Advice

Avoid all PTI-related protests. Allow additional travel time. Monitor trusted local sources for updates on rallies and related disruptions, as organizers may not announce time or location details in advance. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. Leave the area immediately if violence breaks out.