In brief
Protests intensify as citizens defy government lockdown to demand the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
In a remarkable display of defiance, thousands of supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan took to the streets on Monday, making their way toward Islamabad despite a significant police presence and a strict government lockdown. This marked the latest chapter in the rising political tensions in Pakistan as Khan's advocates called for his immediate release.Khan, who has been incarcerated since August 2023, is faced with over 150 criminal cases, a situation his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (P.T.I.) party claims is a politically motivated attack by the military-backed government. Supporters argue that the charges against Khan are designed to undermine his popularity and prevent a resurgence of his political influence.Demonstrations surged after Khan urged his base to gather in the capital, emphasizing the demand for his release and advocating for fresh elections, along with a push to reverse recent constitutional changes that have limited judicial powers. The police reported incidents of violence, with at least one officer fatally injured and multiple others hurt as police confronted demonstrators attempting to break through barricades erected to halt their progress.Leading the charge were significant figures within Khan's inner circle, including his wife, Bushra Bibi, and provincial chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Starting from Peshawar, the group faced obstacles including shipping containers and aggressive police tactics, including tear gas, in their quest to reach Islamabad. As the police continued to confront protesters, the tensions appeared to only fuel the determination of Khan's supporters.
