KARACHI: Sindh’s Local Government Minister, Nasir Hussain Shah, announced that the provincial authorities are prepared to permit Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to organize a public demonstration at Bagh-e-Jinnah in Karachi.
During an interview on ARY News’ program Off The Record, Shah stated that the provincial administration welcomes PTI leaders in Sindh and supports their right to engage in lawful political activities, including public gatherings. He emphasized that no peaceful political protest should be obstructed as long as it adheres to legal requirements.
The minister further mentioned ongoing talks with PTI officials regarding the rally, clarifying that there are no restrictions on holding public meetings in Karachi. PTI has also submitted requests for rallies in the districts of Korangi and South.
Shah explained that PTI initially sought permission to hold a rally on a road in Korangi. However, the deputy commissioner advised against this due to concerns over traffic and security, and proposed an alternative site. Subsequently, PTI requested approval for holding the rally at Bagh-e-Jinnah, which the Sindh government is now set to approve. The minister reiterated that political assemblies in Karachi will be permitted within the boundaries of the law, with the provincial government facilitating lawful political expression.
January 6, 2025, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar announced plans for a nationwide strike and wheel-jam protest scheduled for February 8, aiming to mobilize supporters across the country to press for their demands.
Addressing the media at Dahgal Naka, Rawalpindi, Gohar emphasized that the protest is a constitutional right of PTI and that the party has a well-defined strategy for the movement. He assured that the leadership remains united behind the street protest, which aligns with the directives of PTI founder Imran Khan.
When asked about ongoing negotiations, Gohar dismissed the notion of limited talks involving only a few senior figures, asserting that such a meeting is neither feasible nor necessary. “If negotiations are being blocked, how can progress be made?” he questioned.
He also revealed that PTI leaders visit the party headquarters every Tuesday but are often turned away without any meetings. Despite court orders, no one has been allowed to meet Imran Khan for over a month.
