PTI has rescheduled its Islamabad rally to September 8, citing security concerns and roadblocks by local authorities as reasons for the postponement. The decision followed instructions from party founder Imran Khan and a meeting between senior PTI leaders Omar Ayub Khan, Azam Swati, and Barrister Gohar at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail.
Swati declared that the rally will now be held on September 8 with security arrangements in place. PTI’s Islamabad chapter, led by Aamir Mughal, is set to secure the necessary permissions for the event.
PTI’s statement also expressed concerns that the government might exploit the rally to incite unrest. Earlier, PTI had decided to proceed with its march towards Tarnol Chowk despite the Islamabad district administration’s refusal to grant permission.
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A notification regarding the decision was issued by the chief commissioner, based on the recommendations of the District Intelligence Committee. The committee’s meeting, chaired by the chief commissioner, was attended by the Islamabad inspector general of police and deputy commissioner.
The NOC for the rally, issued by the DC, was reviewed during the meeting. The IG expressed security concerns due to various events taking place, including the presence of a suspicious bag at the rally site.
Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Nasir Rizvi highlighted the heightened security risks during a meeting, noting that the Bangladesh cricket team is currently in the capital, complicating crowd management for the PTI gathering. The administration also cited recent incidents, such as protesters approaching the Supreme Court building, as reasons for the heightened security concerns, ultimately leading to the withdrawal of permission for the rally.
