Thousands of supporters of jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan entered Islamabad on Monday, clashing with security forces in demonstrations demanding his release. The unrest has resulted in at least one police officer’s death and injuries to over 20 others, according to officials.
The protests, organised by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, accuse the government of election fraud in the 8 February general election and demand the release of political prisoners and judicial reforms. Islamabad has been heavily fortified, with paramilitary forces deployed and roads blocked.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the officer’s death, which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned, calling for the perpetrators to face exemplary punishment.
PTI leaders are negotiating with the government to designate a protest site in the capital, avoiding a march toward Parliament. Bushra Bibi, Khan’s wife, addressed supporters near the Hazara Interchange, pledging to continue the march until the release of Imran Khan. “I will stay there till my last breath, and all of you have to support me. This is not just about my husband but about the country and its leader,” she said.
As the chaos continues, authorities have blocked roads with containers and heavy machinery, closed schools in Islamabad, and restricted public assemblies. However, protesters have cleared obstacles and pushed forward toward the capital.
Over 4,000 PTI supporters have reportedly been detained in Punjab province, with the government vowing to take strong action against those entering Islamabad.
The protests have gained global traction, with demonstrations by overseas Pakistanis across Europe, the US, Canada, and Australia. Large rallies were reported in Italy and the UK, where supporters called for Khan’s release and an end to political repression.
Imran Khan, 72, has been in jail since August on corruption charges, which he and his supporters claim are politically motivated. The PTI has held frequent rallies since his ousting from power in April 2022, with this latest mobilization being described as the final call to press their demands.
