Imran Khan (X)
World News: Marking the first anniversary of the disputed 2024 general elections, Imran Khan's PTI party staged protests across Pakistan on February 8, leading to arrests and government restrictions on public gatherings. The PTI has decried the elections as rigged, a claim the government denies.
PTI observed February 8 as a "Black Day" to protest the alleged rigging of the general elections held a year prior. Several PTI leaders and workers were arrested across the country for violating imposed restrictions. The main rally was planned in Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the PTI is in power. In response to the planned protests, the government imposed Section 144 in Islamabad, Punjab, and Balochistan, banning all gatherings, processions, rallies, and sit-ins. Authorities cited the need to maintain law and order and protect lives and properties.
Khwaja Asif, the Defence Minister, accused the PTI of misusing government resources and employees in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to support their rally. He questioned why the protests were not being held in provinces where the PTI claims injustice has been done. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari also criticized the PTI, questioning the relevance of the "Black Day" and the performance of the PTI-led government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Despite the restrictions and arrests, PTI supporters gathered in Swabi and other areas to protest. Ali Amin Gandapur, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stated that the "Black Day" was being marked in protest against the "historic theft of the people's mandate". He called on PTI supporters to protest in every city in Pakistan.
The protests and government response highlight the continued political tensions and divisions in Pakistan following the disputed 2024 general elections. The United States, Britain, and the European Union had previously voiced concerns about the conduct of the vote and urged an investigation.
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