The political landscape of Pakistan witnessed significant unrest as supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) organized nationwide protests to mark the third anniversary of the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, while these demonstrations occurred against the backdrop of ongoing violence in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), adding another layer of complexity to the country's internal stability. Despite heavy police presence and administrative restrictions in various provinces, PTI supporters gathered in large numbers to demand the immediate release of their leader.
Major Rally in Peshawar Amid Restrictions
While the administration denied permission for rallies in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province became the epicenter of the protest. The capital city, Peshawar, hosted the largest rally where thousands of supporters gathered. PTI leaders emphasized that their movement wouldn't cease until Imran Khan is freed from incarceration. The party's senior leader, Sheikh Waqas Akram, stated that all workers had been instructed to conduct peaceful protests in their respective areas. He further alleged that despite the peaceful nature of the calls, the police took aggressive action against party workers in several locations. Nevertheless, the turnout remained high, reflecting the party's resolve to fight for what they describe as the restoration of democracy, the constitution, and the rule of law.
Family Participation and Allegations of Mistreatment
The Peshawar rally saw the participation of Imran Khan's sisters, who joined the supporters in their demand for justice. Senior PTI leader and former federal minister Moonis Elahi raised serious concerns regarding the conditions of Imran Khan's imprisonment. Elahi alleged that the former Prime Minister is facing numerous hardships within the jail premises. According to his statements, Khan is being denied the right to meet his family members and isn't receiving adequate medical treatment. These allegations have fueled the anger of the supporters who believe their leader is being politically victimized.
Amnesty International Raises Human Rights Concerns
The international community has also taken note of the situation. Amnesty International has raised sharp questions directed at the Pakistani government regarding the treatment of the 73 year old former Prime Minister. Isabelle Lassy, the Acting Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, stated that Imran Khan has been deprived of his right to a fair trial, while the organization claims that he has been kept in prolonged isolation, with limited access to medical care and family visits. According to Amnesty International, Imran Khan has not been allowed to meet his family for the past 8 months. Plus, the organization highlighted that since December 2025, both Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, have been denied regular meetings with their legal counsel.
Police Crackdown and Legal Status
In the province of Punjab, the administration's crackdown was particularly visible. PTI lawyer Abuzar Salman Niazi claimed that more than 20 party workers were arrested in Mianwali, Punjab, to prevent them from participating in the scheduled protests. Imran Khan has been in custody since August 5, 2023, following his conviction in a corruption case. While he has received relief in some legal matters, several other cases are still under trial, ensuring his continued detention. The PTI leadership maintains that despite the state's use of force and administrative hurdles, the movement for Imran Khan's release will continue to gain momentum across the country.