Will PTI's Mass Protest Movement in Lahore Change the Course?
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Synopsis
On December 26, PTI announced a mass protest movement in Lahore, sparked by the welcome of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi at Liberty Roundabout. Amidst Imran Khan's imprisonment and ongoing political turmoil, this event aims to mobilize supporters for a significant demonstration to advocate for democracy and Khan's release.
Key Takeaways
- PTI launches a mass protest movement in Lahore.
- Focus on welcoming Sohail Afridi at the Liberty Roundabout.
- Emphasizes restoration of democracy and law.
- Imran Khan remains imprisoned, facing multiple charges.
- Toshakhana-II case continues to impact political dynamics.
Islamabad, Dec 26 (NationPress) The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) declared on Friday that it will initiate a street campaign by welcoming Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi in Lahore, planning a significant public gathering at the Liberty Roundabout, as reported by local media.
PTI's Punjab chief organizer Aliya Hamza Malik stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will embark on a "mass protest movement" following directives from PTI founder Imran Khan. She urged ticket-holders, office-bearers, workers, and lawyers affiliated with PTI in Lahore to gather at Liberty Roundabout to welcome Afridi, as per the leading daily Dawn.
Aliya Hamza Malik emphasized the necessity for PTI members to contribute towards “restoring constitution, law, and democracy in the nation”. She characterized this event as a "historic moment" for transforming Lahore's main boulevard into a march aimed at securing Imran Khan's release.
Imran Khan has been incarcerated since August 2023, currently serving a 14-year sentence at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi due to a £190 million corruption case, along with pending trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act linked to protests on May 9, 2023. His wife Bushra Bibi is also serving a seven-year sentence in the same case.
Recently, Imran Khan issued a nationwide protest call and expressed his plan to contest the court's decision regarding the Toshakhana-II case in the Islamabad High Court.
This statement followed a Pakistani court's recent sentencing of Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to a combined 17 years in prison related to the Toshakhana-II case.
The Toshakhana-II corruption case revolves around the acquisition of an extravagant jewelry set, which was gifted to Imran Khan by the Saudi Crown Prince during an official visit in May 2021, purchased at a minimal cost.
The ruling was delivered by Judge Central Shahrukh Arjumand of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)'s special court, during proceedings held at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail, where Imran Khan is confined.
According to the verdict, Imran Khan has been sentenced to a total of 17 years, comprising 10 years of rigorous imprisonment under various sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, and an additional seven years under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Point of View
I find the PTI's upcoming protest movement to be a significant event in Pakistan's political landscape. The mobilization of supporters around Imran Khan's imprisonment reflects deep-seated concerns regarding democracy and governance in our country. While the situation is tense, it is vital to observe how this movement unfolds and its potential implications for our democratic institutions.
NationPress
27/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PTI's mass protest movement about?
The PTI's mass protest movement aims to rally support for the release of imprisoned leader Imran Khan and to advocate for the restoration of democracy and constitutional law in Pakistan.
Who is leading the protest in Lahore?
The protest will be led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, along with PTI's Punjab chief organizer Aliya Hamza Malik.
Why is Imran Khan imprisoned?
Imran Khan is currently serving a 14-year prison sentence related to a £190 million corruption case and faces additional trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
What happened in the Toshakhana-II case?
The Toshakhana-II case involves the controversial acquisition of an expensive jewelry set gifted to Imran Khan, which has led to his and his wife's recent sentencing.
What are the implications of the protest?
The protest could significantly impact the political landscape in Pakistan, addressing broader issues of governance, democracy, and the rule of law.
