Pakistan Tehreek-E-Insaf (PTI) has announced that it will refrain from any confrontation or turmoil on February 8, the first anniversary of last year’s parliamentary elections, and has instead revealed plans for a major demonstration in Swabi.
PTI had previously sought permission to hold a demonstration in Minar-E-Pakistan in Lahore, but the Deputy Commissioner rejected the request with reference to concern to maintain law and order.
Lahore DC Syed Musa Raza explained that the decision was made to avoid disturbances as significant events were planned in Lahore, including a cricket match, an international speaker conference and a horse and cattle exhibition, all required extensive security staff.
Instead, PTI announced plans for a big rally in Swabi, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and urged supporters nationwide to participate.
PTI -General Secretary Salman Akram Raja declared in Islamabad that the party would only hold a rally in Swabi, while protests would take place at Tehsil and Union Council levels where there were no plans for chaos.
The head of the opposition in the Omar Ayub National Assembly also dealt with followers in a video message declaring February 8 as “Black Day”, which marked the day their votes were allegedly stolen.
He urged PTI supporters and party workers to gather in Swabi at 1 p.m. 14 on Saturday to show solidarity with PTI founder Imran Khan.
Meanwhile, government officials, including police personnel, have been asked to refrain from participating in political gatherings or contexts, with the provincial police to be asked to facilitate or attend such events.
