Political situation in Pakistan

Thousands defy police - Islamabad on lockdown

Although the police have already arrested thousands, around 10,000 protesters are expected to march towards Pakistan's capital Islamabad today, sources in the country's security service told AP. According to the organizers of the opposition party PTI, there will be far more than that.

The protesters are demanding that former Prime Minister Imran Khan be released from prison. The police have announced a curfew ahead of the demonstrations and blocked several roads with the help of shipping containers.

- We are determined and we will reach Islamabad, despite the police using tear gas to stop us, says Kamran Bangash, one of PTI's leaders.

Details: Police killed in conflict with protesters

A policeman has been killed in Pakistan in clashes with protesters from the opposition party PTI, according to the country's information minister Azma Bokhari, according to the Pakistani newspaper The News.

At least 10,000 protesters demanding the release of former prime minister Imran Khan are expected to reach the country's capital Islamabad on Monday evening. The police have responded with curfews, barricades and tear gas.

The ex-minister's wife promises protests "until the last breath"

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi is leading one of the caravans headed for the capital Islamabad to demonstrate for her husband's freedom. The BBC reports.

Bibi, who spoke wearing a full-covering burqa, vowed that the march will not be stopped until Imran Khan is released.

- I will remain until my last breath and you must support me. This is not only about my husband but about our country and its leaders, she says.

Bushra Bibi was convicted along with her husband of several crimes after he was ousted in 2022. She has since been released on bail.
 

US urges both sides in Pakistan: "No violence"

The United States calls on both the government and protesters in Pakistan to refrain from violence, AFP reports.

- We encourage those who protest to demonstrate peacefully and without violence, and at the same time we call on the Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, says State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

At least 10,000 protesters are believed to be taking part in a march on the capital Islamabad today. They demand that former Prime Minister Imran Kahn be released from prison.