PTBP Web Desk
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) officially submitted a request to the deputy commissioner’s (DC) office in Rawalpindi, seeking permission for a public rally scheduled for September 28, 2024.
The request, submitted by PTI leaders Ghulam Husnain, Owais Younis, and Nabeel Satti, aims to secure approval for holding the rally at either Liaquat Bagh or Bhatta Chowk, both popular venues for political gatherings in the city.
In their application, PTI emphasized that Pakistan’s constitution grants all political parties the right to conduct political activities. The party requested that the deputy commissioner’s office issue the necessary No-Objection Certificate (NoC) to ensure a smooth and lawful public gathering. As of now, the application has been received by the Rawalpindi DC, and the PTI awaits a formal response regarding the rally’s approval.
The planned rally in Rawalpindi is a part of PTI’s broader political campaign aimed at mobilizing support for the party and its leader, Imran Khan, who has remained at the center of national political discourse. PTI’s public rallies serve as a critical platform for engaging supporters, voicing concerns over current political conditions, and addressing issues related to governance, democracy, and the rule of law in Pakistan.
Before the formal submission of the request for the Rawalpindi rally, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had announced in a video message released on Sunday that the party was planning a series of public gatherings across Punjab. He declared that the first gathering would be held in Mianwali, a southern district of Punjab, this Sunday, followed by additional rallies, including the one scheduled in Rawalpindi.
“I will come and hold a gathering in Mianwali, followed by another show of power in Pindi and other cities,” said Gandapur, reaffirming PTI’s commitment to staying active on the political front and continuing its public outreach efforts. His announcement signals PTI’s intention to hold a series of high-profile rallies across key cities, which are expected to attract thousands of supporters.
Gandapur’s message echoed the party’s broader strategy of demonstrating political strength and resilience despite the challenges it faces under the current political climate. The planned rally in Rawalpindi, if approved, is expected to be a significant event, showcasing PTI’s influence in the region.
In his video message, Chief Minister Gandapur did not hold back in his criticism of the current ruling parties. He accused them of being involved in “unconstitutional activities” and vowed to expose their wrongdoings in PTI’s upcoming rallies. Gandapur firmly stated that the people of Pakistan stand with democracy, the constitution, and PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned for over 414 days.
“What should I apologize for? I have done nothing that warrants an apology. If you want to file cases, file them,” Gandapur declared defiantly, signaling PTI’s readiness to confront the legal challenges it faces from the ruling government. His remarks underscore PTI’s unwavering stance in defending its leadership and principles in the face of what they consider political persecution.
The chief minister also strongly condemned the circumstances that led to Imran Khan’s removal from power, characterizing it as illegal and unjust. He vowed that PTI would continue its fight for justice, with its upcoming rallies serving as a platform to remind the nation of its commitment to democratic governance and political transparency.
PTI’s move to hold public rallies across Punjab and other parts of Pakistan comes at a critical time. The party is focusing on maintaining visibility and momentum as it navigates its current political challenges. Public rallies have long been a core element of PTI’s strategy, allowing the party to communicate directly with its base and energize supporters.
The September 28 rally in Rawalpindi, if approved, will likely serve as a key moment in PTI’s broader efforts to consolidate its support. Rawalpindi holds particular significance for PTI, given the city’s political importance and its proximity to Islamabad. Hosting a successful rally in the city could further boost the party’s influence and provide an opportunity to address ongoing political and legal issues.
PTI’s emphasis on constitutional rights, particularly its right to hold peaceful rallies, aligns with its larger narrative of promoting democratic values and challenging any actions that undermine Pakistan’s legal and political frameworks.
As PTI moves forward with its plans for public rallies, the party’s leadership continues to face political and legal obstacles, especially with the imprisonment of its founder, Imran Khan. Nevertheless, the party remains determined to stay politically active and engage with the public.
Gandapur’s video message, combined with the party’s formal request to hold a rally in Rawalpindi, signals PTI’s intent to remain a key player in Pakistan’s political landscape. The upcoming rally is expected to highlight PTI’s core messages and reinforce its commitment to addressing the issues faced by Pakistanis, including the fight for justice for Imran Khan and the restoration of what they see as the country’s constitutional and democratic order.
As the nation waits for the Rawalpindi DC’s decision on the NoC request, all eyes will be on PTI’s next steps and its ability to mobilize support through its planned public gatherings.
