PTI, allies announce nationwide rallies for Constitution, Imran's release

LAHORE: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its allies on Saturday unveiled plans for a series of rallies across the country, calling for the protection of the Constitution and the release of party founder Imran Khan amid ongoing political tensions.

The announcement came during a joint press conference in Lahore, where leaders from the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz Ain Pakistan (TTAP) and allied groups appeared alongside senior PTI figures, including Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Salman Akram Raja, Asad Qaiser, Latif Khosa and Ammar Ali Jan.

Addressing the gathering, Achakzai criticised the current political system, raising concerns over electoral processes and institutional performance, while questioning decisions such as the removal of PTI’s election symbol.

PTI leaders reiterated their demand for Imran Khan’s release, with Salman Akram Raja asserting that the party’s political future remained closely tied to its founding leader. He urged broader public participation, including workers and farmers, describing the movement as a democratic struggle.

Asad Qaiser also highlighted economic challenges, pointing to inflation and rising costs faced by labourers and farmers, and said the party would engage with these groups while opposing increases in energy and fuel prices.

Speakers further called on the judiciary to uphold the rule of law, with Latif Khosa expressing concerns over recent constitutional changes and their potential impact on judicial independence and ongoing legal cases involving Imran Khan.

In a separate statement, PTI marked what it described as 1,000 days of Khan’s detention, alleging violations of fundamental rights, including restricted access to family and legal counsel—claims the government has denied, maintaining that all legal proceedings are being conducted in accordance with the law.

The party also cited a report by Reporters Without Borders, voicing concerns over media freedom and urging authorities to ensure protection for journalists.

The planned rallies come as political polarisation intensifies, with opposition groups stepping up criticism of the government while navigating legal and organisational challenges.