ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Authorities in Pakistan have banned public gatherings of five or more people in the capital ahead of a rally planned by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The two-month ban, announced Tuesday, comes days before Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party plans to stage a march on Sunday to demand the release of the imprisoned leader.
Officials said the ban is intended to maintain peace and prevent unlawful assemblies amid a heightened security environment. While the government notice did not cite any specific threats, Pakistan has seen a surge in militant violence in recent months.
Security concerns and political tensions
Last month, authorities imposed similar measures, effectively locking down the city to prevent a large political rally by Khan’s party. The restrictions forced the PTI to hold its gathering on the outskirts of Islamabad.
Khan, who has been in prison for more than a year facing over 150 criminal cases, remains a popular figure in Pakistani politics. His supporters and party officials have dismissed the charges as politically motivated.
Khan was ousted as prime minister in 2022 through a no-confidence vote in Parliament, an event that deepened political divisions in the country.
Officials said they are negotiating with Khan’s party to postpone Sunday’s rally, citing the risk of possible militant attacks.
